# Magnesium and calcium are both elements in Group 2 of the periodic table. Explain why magnesium and calcium have similar chemical properties, and why calcium is more reactive than magnesium.

> Eduqas A-Level Chemistry — 2.2 Group 1, 2 and 7 · Explain · 5 marks

## Mark scheme (5 marks)

1. Elements in the same group have the same number of electrons in their outer shell
2. The number of outer shell electrons determines chemical properties, so similar outer shell electrons means similar chemical properties
3. Calcium has more electron shells than magnesium
4. The outer electron in calcium is less strongly attracted to / held by the nucleus
5. Therefore calcium loses its outer electrons more easily, making it more reactive

## Key terms

- [Group 2](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/group-2)

## Related

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Source: [GradeNine](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/q/magnesium-and-calcium-are-both-elements-24993c74) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.