What group number corresponds to alkaline earth metals on the periodic table?

The group number that corresponds to alkaline earth metals on the periodic table is 2A. Alkaline earth metals are located in Group 2 of the periodic table, which is characterized by their similar properties and is specifically known for containing metals like beryllium, magnesium, calcium, strontium, barium, and radium.

These elements share common traits such as having two electrons in their outermost shell, which they readily lose to form +2 cations. This leads to their reactivity, though they are less reactive than the alkali metals found in Group 1A. Understanding the group placement helps predict the chemical behavior of these metals, as groups in the periodic table are aligned based on shared characteristics, such as reactivity and valence electron configuration.

The other group numbers mentioned relate to different categories of elements: 1A contains the alkali metals, 18 includes the noble gases, and 17 is for the halogens. Each of these groups has distinct properties and behaviors that are essential to recognize in physical science.