Jordalkalimetaller

Jordalkalimetaller, also known as alkaline earth metals, are a group of chemical elements in the periodic table, specifically the second column of elements. This group includes beryllium (Be), magnesium (Mg), calcium (Ca), strontium (Sr), barium (Ba), and radium (Ra). They are named for their alkaline earth oxides, which are basic anhydrides and form alkaline solutions when dissolved in water.

The alkaline earth metals are silvery-white, relatively soft metals at standard temperature and pressure. They are less reactive than the alkali metals but more reactive than most other metals. They are all divalent, meaning they have a valency of two, and they tend to form ionic compounds with nonmetals.

Calcium and strontium are essential for living organisms, with calcium playing a crucial role in bone formation and muscle contraction. Magnesium is also important for biological processes, including photosynthesis and energy production. Barium and radium are less common in biological systems but have specific uses in medicine and industry.

The alkaline earth metals are widely used in various applications, including alloys, fireworks, and as reducing agents in metallurgy. They are also used in the production of glass and ceramics. Beryllium, due to its low density and high stiffness, is used in aerospace and defense industries. Radium, despite its radioactivity, has historical uses in medicine, particularly in the treatment of cancer.