Why are group 2 metals harder than group 1 metals?

Answer 1

Group 2 metals are harder than Group 1 metals because they have more valence electrons and stronger metallic bonds. The elements in Group 2 have two valence electrons, which creates a stronger electrostatic attraction between the atoms and their delocalized electrons. This increased attraction makes it more difficult to separate the atoms and thus, results in higher melting and boiling points and harder metals. In contrast, Group 1 metals only have one valence electron, which creates a weaker metallic bond and less resistance to deformation.