Use the periodic table to answer the question.

Question

Which Statement about magnesium [Mg] and calcium [Ca] is correct?

Answer 1

To determine which statement about magnesium (Mg) and calcium (Ca) is correct, let’s start with their basic properties:

1. Position in the Periodic Table:

   • Magnesium (Mg) is located in Group 2 (the alkaline earth metals) and Period 3.
   • Calcium (Ca) is also in Group 2 (the alkaline earth metals) but is located in Period 4.

2. Atomic Number:

   • The atomic number of magnesium is 12.
   • The atomic number of calcium is 20.

3. Reactivity:

   • Both magnesium and calcium are reactive metals, but calcium is more reactive than magnesium due to its lower ionization energy, which decreases as you move down the group.

4. Physical Properties:

   • Magnesium is a lighter metal than calcium.
   • Magnesium has a higher melting point compared to calcium.

5. Common Uses:

   • Magnesium is often used in alloys and fireworks, while calcium is used in cement and as a dietary supplement.

If you have specific statements in mind regarding magnesium and calcium, please provide them, and I will identify which back up the knowledge discussed above!