What is the trend in reactivity of Group 2 elements with halogens as the group is descended?

In group 2 elements, the reactivity is a measure of how easily the atoms lose outer shell electrons. An atom at the top of the group, such as magnesium, has less shells meaning the atomic radius is smaller, and the net attractive force from the nucleus on the outer shell electrons is greater, meaning it's harder to lose electrons to a halogen, i.e., it's less reactive. An atom at the bottom of the group, such as barium, is more reactive. This is because although the proton number has increased, increasing the attraction the nucleus has for outer shell electrons, the number of shells has also increased significantly. As a result, the electron shielding is far greater so the nuclear force exerted on outer shell electrons is weaker, and so it's easier for a halogen to take them in a reaction.

Answered by Maria F. Chemistry tutor

8567 Views

See similar Chemistry A Level tutors

Related Chemistry A Level answers

All answers ▸

Explain the reasons for the changes in reactivity of Phenol, Benzene and MethylBenzene


Why do the atomic radii of the elements decrease across a period?


Why can endothermic reactions occur spontaneously if the entropy change is negative for a cooling process?


How do I know if an enthalpy change should be positive or negative?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact usWhatsapp logoMessage us on Whatsapptelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

© MyTutorWeb Ltd 2013–2025

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy
Cookie Preferences