Question detail
What is produced when calcium reacts with water?
Try the question, check the answer, then read the explanation to understand the curriculum point.
At a glance
MCQ
Type
practice
Style
Topic
Group 2, the alkaline earth metals
Question
- A. Calcium hydroxide and hydrogen gas.
- B. Calcium oxide and oxygen gas.
- C. Calcium sulfate and hydrogen gas.
- D. Calcium carbonate and water.
Answer
Calcium hydroxide and hydrogen gas.
Explanation
Calcium reacts with water to produce calcium hydroxide (Ca(OH)2) and hydrogen gas (H2), illustrating the reaction of Group 2 metals with water.
Common mistake
Misunderstanding Group 2 Metal Reactivity
Students often confuse the reactivity of Group 2 metals with non-metals, thinking they react similarly with oxygen, water, and acids.
To clarify, remember that Group 2 metals react with oxygen to form metal oxides, with water to produce hydroxides and hydrogen gas, and with acids to yield salts and hydrogen gas. For example, the reaction of magnesium with water can be represented as: 1. **Formula**: Mg + 2H2O → Mg(OH)2 + H2 2. **Substitution**: Here, magnesium reacts with water to form magnesium hydroxide and hydrogen gas. 3. **Working**: The magnesium displaces hydrogen from water, resulting in the formation of magnesium hydroxide. 4. **Answer**: The products are magnesium hydroxide (Mg(OH)2) and hydrogen gas (H2). 5. **Units/Conclusion**: This shows that Group 2 metals react with water to produce hydroxides, which is a key characteristic of their reactivity.
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