Metals, Alkaline Earth
| Definition: |
Metals that constitute the group 2 (formerly group IIa) of the periodic table. |
| Notes: |
do not confuse with METALS, ALKALI; GEN: prefer specifics |
| Previously Indexed: |
Metals (1966-1975) |
Metals, Alkaline Earth Categories.
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Barium - An element of the alkaline earth group of metals. It has an atomic symbol Ba, atomic number 56, and atomic weight 138. All of its acid-soluble salts are poisonous. |
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Beryllium - Beryllium. An element with the atomic symbol Be, atomic number 4, and atomic weight 9.01218. Short exposure to this element can lead to a type of poisoning known as BERYLLIOSIS. |
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Calcium - A basic element found in nearly all organized tissues. It is a member of the alkaline earth family of metals with the atomic symbol Ca, atomic number 20, and atomic weight 40. Calcium is the most abundant mineral in the body and combines with phosphorus to form calcium phosphate in the bones and teeth. It is essential for the normal functioning of nerves and muscles and plays a role in blood coagulation (as factor IV) and in many enzymatic processes. |
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Magnesium - A light, silvery, metallic element. It has the atomic symbol Mg, atomic number 12, and atomic weight 24.31. Its salts are essential in nutrition, being required for the activity of many enzymes, especially those concerned with oxidative phosphorylation. It is a component of both intra- and extracellular fluids and is excreted in the urine and feces. Deficiency causes irritability of the nervous system with tetany, vasodilation, convulsions, tremors, depression, and psychotic behavior. (From Dorland, 27th ed) |
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Strontium - An element of the alkaline earth family of metals. It has the atomic symbol Sr, atomic number 38, and atomic weight 87.62. |
Metals, Alkaline Earth Definitions and Terms
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