DIVE Integrated Chemistry and Physics (ICP) Quarterly Exam 2 2025 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

The correct response identifies alkaline-earth metals as a group notable for their low reactivity and characteristic of having two valence electrons. This group, which includes elements like magnesium and calcium, is located in Group 2 of the periodic table. The two valence electrons give these metals unique properties, such as their ability to form compounds by losing those two electrons relatively easily, yet they do not react as vigorously as alkali metals, which have only one valence electron.

Alkaline-earth metals are generally more stable than alkali metals, leading to their lower reactivity. Their position in the periodic table reflects this, as they are found to the right of the alkali metals. The combined traits of having two valence electrons and a more stable electron configuration contribute to their moderate reactivity, which is still classified as lower than that of more reactive groups.

Other options do not possess these specific traits; for example, alkali metals have one valence electron and are characterized by high reactivity. Transition elements have varying valence electrons and often display a range of oxidation states, leading them to behave quite differently in chemical reactions. Halogens, located in Group 17, are highly reactive nonmetals with seven valence electrons, seeking to gain one