Elements in Group 2 of the periodic table are known as what?

Elements in Group 2 of the periodic table are referred to as alkaline earth metals. This designation stems from their common properties and the fact that they form alkaline (basic) solutions when they react with water. The term "alkaline" comes from the basic nature of the compounds they form, and "earth" historically related to their occurrence in nature.

Alkaline earth metals include beryllium, magnesium, calcium, strontium, barium, and radium. These elements share similarities such as being shiny, silvery-white, and having relatively low density compared to many other metals. They are also characterized by having two electrons in their outermost shell, which they readily lose to form positive ions with a charge of +2, making them highly reactive, though less so than their counterparts in Group 1, the alkali metals.

The other options refer to different groups or categories of elements. Transition metals encompass groups 3 to 12 and are characterized by their ability to form variable oxidation states and colorful compounds. Lanthanides are part of a separate series located below the main body of the periodic table and are known for their unique electronic configurations and use in various high-tech applications. Alkaline metals is a common misspelling