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Question

Are alkaline earth metals dangerous?


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Solution

Alkaline earth metals are present in group 2 and have a valency of 2 also. It includes Berylium (Be), Magnesium (Mg), Calcium (Ca), Strontium (Sr), Barium (Ba), and Radium (Ra).

Alkaline earth metals are dangerous.

  • Corrosive - Alkaline earth metal reacts violently with water producing corrosive hydroxides, so direct skin contact with these metals results in the destruction of tissues.

Ca(s)+2H2O(l)Ca(OH)2(aq)+H2(g)

  • Flammable - Alkaline earth metals catch fire in contact with moist air. So these should be carefully handled.

2Mg(s)+O2(g)2MgO(s)

  • Health hazard - Beryllium is highly toxic, it causes respiratory disease and is also carcinogenic. When these metals catch fire it produces highly toxic gases.

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