Magnesium and calcium have similar chemical properties because their atoms in the ground state have

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UpStudy Free Solution: Magnesium and calcium have similar chemical properties primarily because their atoms in the ground state have the same number of valence electrons. Both magnesium (Mg) and calcium (Ca) are in Group 2 (also known as the alkaline earth metals) of the periodic table, which means they each have two valence electrons in their outermost electron shell. This similarity in their electron configuration leads to similar chemical behavior, such as forming +2 cations and reacting similarly with other elements. Supplemental Knowledge Magnesium (Mg) and calcium (Ca) are both members of Group 2 on the periodic table, known as the alkaline earth metals. The chemical properties of elements within a group are often similar due to their electron configurations, particularly the number of valence electrons. 1. Valence Electrons:- Both magnesium and calcium have two valence electrons in their outermost electron shell. For magnesium, the electron configuration is $$[ Ne] 3s^ 2$$, and for calcium, it is $$[ Ar] 4s^ 2$$. These two valence electrons play a crucial role in their chemical reactivity. 2. Formation of Ions:- Magnesium and calcium tend to lose their two valence electrons to achieve a stable noble gas configuration, forming $$Mg^ { 2+ } $$ and $$Ca^ { 2+ } $$ cations respectively. This loss of electrons results in a +2 oxidation state for both elements. 3. Chemical Reactivity:- Due to having similar electron configurations, magnesium and calcium exhibit similar chemical behaviors. They both react with water to form hydroxides (though calcium reacts more vigorously), react with oxygen to form oxides, and readily form ionic compounds with nonmetals such as chlorine (e.g., $$MgCl_ 2$$ and $$CaCl_ 2$$). 4. Physical Properties:- Both elements are shiny, silvery-white metals that are relatively soft compared to transition metals but harder than alkali metals from Group 1. For example:- When magnesium reacts with hydrochloric acid ($$HCl$$), it forms magnesium chloride ($$MgCl_ 2$$) and hydrogen gas ($$H_ 2$$):$$Mg + 2HCl → MgCl_ 2 + H_ 2$$- Similarly, when calcium reacts with hydrochloric acid, it forms calcium chloride ($$CaCl_ 2$$) and hydrogen gas:$$Ca + 2HCl → CaCl_ 2 + H_ 2$$ Understanding why certain elements, like magnesium and calcium, possess similar characteristics can broaden your knowledge of chemistry's foundational principles.At UpStudy, we make mastering complex chemistry concepts easy! Our AI-powered Homework Help app delivers clear explanations across disciplines including chemistry, mathematics, physics and biology to ensure you develop an in-depth knowledge of these subjects.Join millions who rely on UpStudy for academic success! Download UpStudy today and enhance your learning experience with expert guidance at your fingertips!because their atoms in the ground state have the same number of valence electrons

Magnesium and calcium have similar chemical properties because their atoms in the ground state have

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