Alkaline Earth Metals
Alkaline earth metals are one of the groups of elements found in the periodic table. They are a group of reactive metals with similar properties and are positioned in Group 2 of the periodic table. Most alkaline earth metals have their outer electron shell partially filled, making them reactive and powerful reducing agents that either give up or attract electrons. All alkaline earth metals will react with water and form hydrogen, a highly flammable gas.
The group of alkaline earth metals consists of beryllium, magnesium, calcium, strontium, barium, and radium. Beryllium is the lightest and most reactive alkaline earth metal and it has the highest melting point of these elements. Magnesium is the most abundant element in the group, and it is an essential dietary mineral. Calcium is one of the most common elements on the planet. It is a hard, gray metallic element that is essential for living creatures. It is found in the shells of marine animals and snails, and it is also found in the bones of humans and animals. It is also a major component in cutting and grinding tools. Strontium is a soft, silver-white metal that has many uses in laboratory settings, including fluorescent lamps, television tubes, and x-rays. Barium has many uses in manufacturing, and it is used in automobile spark plugs and fireworks. Radium is a highly radioactive metal that is used in certain medical treatments.
Alkaline earth metals have many applications in industries, including metallurgy, electronics, and construction. Aluminum and magnesium are widely used in various alloys, such as steel and other metals. Magnesium and beryllium are used in the making of aircraft and in other industries. Calcium is widely used in construction and also used in batteries, heaters, and other devices that require an electrical current. Strontium is used in luminescent paint and in some fireworks displays. Barium is used in lubricants and insecticide sprays. It is also used in various medicines and in special glass products.
These metals play an important role in the food industry and are used in the human body to help maintain good health. Calcium helps to store energy and build strong bones and teeth. Magnesium helps to regulate the heart rate and is responsible for controlling the muscles and nerves. Beryllium also helps to regulate the heartbeat and also helps with red blood cell formation.
Although these metals are very important, they can pose several health risks when ingested or inhaled. Beryllium can cause severe lung damage and it is classified as a carcinogen. Magnesium and calcium may also be toxic in certain forms and in high concentrations. Radium is the most dangerous of these elements, as it is highly radioactive and is the most toxic of all of the alkaline earth metals. It is most dangerous when ingested or inhaled in dust form. It is very important to handle these metals safely and avoid direct contact or inhalation of dust.
