S Block

S Block
Group 1 (Alkali Metals)
Property Li Na K Rb Cs Fr
At. No 3 11 19 37 55 87
At Mass 6.94 22.99 39.10 85.47 132.91 223
E.C [He]2s1 [Ne]3s1 [Ar]4s1 [Kr]5s1 [Xe]6s1 [Rn]7s1
Hionisation 520 496 419 403 376 375
(kJ/mol)
Hhydration –506 –406 –330 –310 –276 –
(kJ/mol)
Metallic 152 186 227 248 265 –
Radius (pm)
Ionic Radius 76 102 138 152 167 180
M+(pm)
MP (K) 454 371 336 312 302 –
BP (K) 1615 1156 1032 961 944 –
Density 0.53 0.97 0.86 1.53 1.90 –
(g/cc)
𝐸𝑀°
+/𝑀 –3.04 –2.714 –2.925 –2.930 –2.927 –
(Volt)
Occurrence 18 ppm 2.27 (w/w) 1.84 (w/w) 78.12 ppm 2.6 ppm 10–18 ppm
Flame Crimson Red Yellow Violet Red Violet Blue
Colour (670.8 nm) (589.2 nm) (766.5 nm) (780.0 nm) (455.5 nm)
E.N 1.0 0.9 0.8 0.8 0.7 0.7
**Source – NCERT
# Physical Properties of Alkali Metals  Softness increases with increase of atomic
 These are soft in nature and can be cut with the number because there is a continuous decrease of
help of knife except the lithium. metallic bond strength on account of an increase in
 The atoms of alkali metals have the largest size atomic size.
in their respective periods.
 The first ionization energy of the alkali metals # Atomic Size
are the lowest as compared to the elements in the  These elements are largest in size in the period
other group. and the atomic size increase in going downwards in
 The alkali metals show +1 oxidation state. the group.
 The alkali metals have low values of reduction  Comparison in size between alkali metal and
potential (as shown in table) and therefore have a alkaline earth metal.
strong tendency to lose electrons and act as good
reducing agents. Metallic radii (pm) of Group I & 2
 The melting and boiling points of alkali metals Li 152 Be 111
are very low because the intermetallic bonds in them Na 186 Mg 160
are quite weak. K 227 Ca 197
 The alkali metals form ionic (electrovalent) Rb 248 Sr 215
compounds. Cs 265 Ba 222
 The alkali metals are good conductors of heat Be < Li < Mg < Na < Ca < Sr < Ba < K < Rb < Cs
and electricity.
 Alkali metals (except Li) exhibit photoelectric Metallic radii (pm) of Group I & 2
effect1 Li+ 76 Be2+ 31
 The alkali metals and their salts impart a +
Na 102 Mg2+ 72
characteristic colour to flame
K+ 138 Ca2+ 100
Rb+ 152 Sr2+ 118
# Physical State +
 Soft, silvery white metal having a high and bright Cs 167 Ba2+ 135
lustre when freshly cut. Be2+ < Mg2+ < Li+ < Ca2+ < Na+ < Sr2+ < Ba2+ < K+
 They all form body centred lattices. < Rb+ < Cs+

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# Oxidation State
 These metals exhibit + 1 oxidation state,
difference of their second and third ionisation
potentials is more than 16 eV. Therefore, their + 1
oxidation state is more stable.

# Density
𝐴𝑡𝑜𝑚𝑖𝑐 𝑊𝑒𝑖𝑔ℎ𝑡
 Density = 𝑉𝑜𝑙𝑢𝑚𝑒
 Atomic weight increase from Li to Cs in the  The blue colour of the solution is due to the
group and volume also increase, but increase in ammoniated electron absorbs energy in the visible
atomic weight is more as compared to volume. region of light.
Therefore, density increases from Li to Cs.  At low concentrations (below 3 M), the solution
 Exception: Density of Na is more than that of K. is dark blue and has ten times the conductivity of
In K, 3d orbital is vacant, 3rd orbit has the capacity aqueous sodium chloride
to hold 18e- but it has only 8e-. Due to empty orbital  At higher concentrations (above 3 M), the
atomic volumes increases and so density decreases. solution is copper-coloured (bronze) and has
 Density: Li < K < Na < Rb < Cs approximately the conductivity of liquid metals like
mercury and becomes diamagnetic.
# Flame Test  On prolong standing, the solution liberates H2
 Alkali metals have large size. When they are resulting in the formation of amide.
heated in the flame of Bunsen burner, the electrons  M(s) + NH3(l) → ½H2(g) + M+(am) + NH2– (am)
present in the valence shell move from lower energy
level to higher energy level by absorption of heat N.B.
from the flame.  Where the (am) designation refers to an
 When they come back to the ground state, they ammonia solution, analogous to (aq) used to indicate
emit the extra energy in the form of visible light to aqueous solutions.
provide colour to the flame.
Li Na K Rb Cs # Hydration Energy
Crimson Yellow Violet Red Blue  Hydration energy decreases on going
Red Violet downwards in the group, due to increase in the size
of metal ion.
1
# Photoelectric Effect  Hydration energy  𝑠𝑖𝑧𝑒
 Size of alkali metal is large and one electron is  Li+ > Na+ > K+ > Rb+ > Cs+
present in its outermost shell. Due to this, electron
of outermost shell gets excited by absorption of
# Reactivity
visible light. Therefore, alkali metal shows
 Due to large size of these metals, the electron of
photoelectric effect. This is the reason that it is used
the outermost shell is weakly attracted towards the
in the cells.
nucleus.
 Low IE favours photoelectric effect
 Na is very reactive, and is kept in kerosene, so
 Order of photoelectric effect:
that air does not come directly in contact with
Li < Na < K < Rb < Cs
sodium.
 Li is stable in air due to small size, Na and K
# Solubility in Liquefied Ammonia
become neutral and Rb and Cs burn spontaneously
 Ionisation potential is low due to large size of
in air.
alkali metals, i.e., they readily dissolve in liquefied
 Li hardly reacts with steam, whereas, Cs reacts
ammonia to form blue coloured solution
even with cold water.
 M + (x+y)NH3 → [M(NH3)x]+ + [e(NH3)y]–
 Li forms only one of oxide (Li2O), because
ionisation potential of Li is high.
 Superoxide are paramagnetic and coloured due
to the presence of unpaired electron. Order of their
stability is as follows: Normal oxide > Peroxide >
Superoxide

# Lustrous Surface
 Lustre is due to mobile electrons in the metallic
lattice. Valence electrons generated vibration in the
electrical field of the light waves. The vibrating

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electrons emit electromagnetic energy in the form of  Reducing nature (in gaseous state):
light, and thus the surface of these metals starts Li < Na < K < Rb < Cs
shining.
# Chemical Properties
# Tendency of Forming Complex # With Oxygen/Air
 Complex compounds are formed by the metal  Alkali metal tarnish in air due to formation of
which has: their oxide.
 Very small size of the cation. 𝑂2
 Li → Li2O
 Maximum charge on the cation 𝑂2 𝑂2
 Vacant d orbitals in the cation.  Na → Na2O → Na2O2
𝑂2 𝑂2 𝑂2
 Because of their low positive charge (+1) and  K → K2O → K2O2 → KO2
relatively large ionic radii, alkali metal cations have 𝑂2 𝑂2 𝑂2
only a weak tendency to react with simple Lewis  Rb → Rb2O → Rb2O2 → RbO2
𝑂2 𝑂2 𝑂2
bases to form metal complexes.  K → Cs2O → Cs2O2 → CsO2
 Complex formation is most significant for the  All the Group I metal oxides are strongly basic
smallest cation (Li+) and decreases with increasing and react vigorously giving hydroxide
radius.  Li2O + H2O → 2LiOH(Less violent)
 In aqueous solution, for example, Li+ forms the  Na2O2 + H2O → 2NaOH + H2O2
tetrahedral [Li(H2O)4]+ complex.  KO2 + H2O → KOH + H2O2 + O2
 In contrast, the larger alkali metal cations form  The peroxides and the superoxides on reaction
octahedral [M(H2O)6]+ complexes. E.g [Rb(H2O)6]+ with water give H2O2 which in turns is a powerful
oxidising agent. Thus, the peroxides and the
# Strength of Metallic Bonds (Softness) superoxides are also oxidizing in nature.
 Metallic bond is weak due to presence of one  The oxides and peroxides are colourless when
electron in the valence shell and the BCC structure. pure, but the superoxides are yellow or orange in
The packing efficiency is 68%. Thus, packing of colour.
atoms is loose and these elements are soft.
 Strength of metallic bond ∝ # With Water
 These metals are soft because one electron is  Alkali metal (except Li) reacts explosively with
present in their valence shell, which participates in water to produce hydrogen.
bond formation. Thus, metallic bond is weak.  2M + 2H2O → 2MOH + H2
 Atomic size increases in the group from Li to Cs,  Li has most 𝐸𝑀°
+ /𝑀 (–3.04V) value but reacts less
due to which strength of metallic bond decreases. °
vigorously with water than Na which has less 𝐸𝑀 +/𝑀
This is the reason why Li is hard, but Na and K are
soft, whereas, Rb and Cs are liquid due to weak (–2.714V) value. This is because small size of Li and
metallic bonds. Sheets and wires can be prepared high hydration energy.
from Li because of its hardness.  Order of reactivity with water increases down the
group.
# MP & BP
 Their melting and boiling points are low due to # With Hydrogen
weak metallic bonds. Strength of metallic bond  The alkali metals react with hydrogen and form
decreases in the group from Li to Cs, due to which ionic hydrides, M+H- with MP.
hardness decreases from Li to Cs.  2M + H2  2MH
 MP & BP: Li > Na > K > Rb > Cs  These hydrides on reaction with water liberate
hydrogen. Thus, they are a useful source of
# Reducing Power hydrogen:
 The reducing power of a metal is related to its  MH + H2O  MOH + H2
oxidation potential which represents the tendency of  Lithium hydride on reaction with AlCl3 in ether
element to lose electron and get oxidised. solution forms lithium aluminium hydride which is
 All alkali metals have low I.E. leading to a high a useful reducing agent in organic chemistry.
oxidation potential. 4LiH + AlCl3  LiAlH4 + 3LiCl
 Reducing nature (in solution):  Similarly, sodium hydride forms sodium
Li > Cs > Rb > K > Na borohydride which is also used as a reducing agent.
 Due to small size of Li and its high hydration  Metal hydrides are good reducing agents.
enthalpy which accounts for its high reducing Reducing power increases down the group.
power.  Group 1 hydrides are rock salt structure.
Property Li Na K Rb Cs  LiH is most stable.
° – – – – –  LiH is covalent in nature.
𝐸𝑀 +/𝑀

(Volt) 3.04 2.714 2.925 2.930 2.927

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metal and hydroxide ion and M – O bond in M – O
# Metal Halides (MX) – H can easily break giving M+ and OH–.
 2M + X2  2MX  Solubility of hydroxides increases with
 M2O + 2HX → 2MX + H2O increasing ionic character.
 MOH + HX → MX + H2O  Solubility order:
 M2CO3 + 2HX → 2MX + CO2 + H2O (M = Li, LiOH < NaOH < KOH < RbOH < CsOH
Na, K, Rb or Cs)  All these hydroxides are thermally stable except
 All these halides are colourless, high melting lithium hydroxide.
crystalline solids having high negative enthalpies of ∆
2LiOH → Li2O + H2O
formation.
 Stability order: MF > MCl > MBr > MI # Metal Carbonates (M2CO3)
 LiF is insoluble in water due to very high lattice  Basic character:
energy. Li2CO3 < Na2CO3 < K2CO3 < Rb2CO3 < Cs2CO3
 CsI is insoluble in water due to very low  Ionic character:
hydration energy. Li2CO3 < Na2CO3 < K2CO3 < Rb2CO3 < Cs2CO3
 Rest of halides are soluble in H2O.  MP & BP:
 The solubility of the most of alkali metal halides Li2CO3 < Na2CO3 < K2CO3 < Rb2CO3 < Cs2CO3
except those of fluorides decreases on descending  Solubility:
the group since the decrease in hydration energy is Li2CO3 < Na2CO3 < K2CO3 < Rb2CO3 < Cs2CO3
more than the corresponding decrease in the lattice  Stability Order:
energy. Li2CO3 < Na2CO3 < K2CO3 < Rb2CO3 < Cs2CO3
 Due to small size and high electronegativity,  Li2CO3 is least stable out of all these carbonates,
lithium halides except LiF are predominantly because it is covalent and decomposes to Li2O and
covalent and hence are soluble in covalent solvents CO2 at low temperature.
such as alcohol, acetone, ethyl acetate, LiCl is also  Stability of carbonates of IA group metals >
soluble in pyridine. In contrast NaCl being ionic is stability of carbonates of IIA group metals.
insoluble in organic solvents.
 Due to high hydration energy of Li+ ion, Lithium # Metal Sulphates (M2SO4)
halides are soluble in water except LiF which is  Ionic character:
sparingly soluble due to its high lattice Li2SO4 < Na2SO4 < K2SO4 < Rb2SO4 < Cs2SO4
energy.  MP & BP:
 For the same alkali metal the melting point Li2SO4 < Na2SO4 < K2SO4 < Rb2SO4 < Cs2SO4
decreases in the order fluoride > chloride > bromide  Solubility:
> iodide because for the same alkali metal ion, the Li2SO4 < Na2SO4 < K2SO4 < Rb2SO4 < Cs2SO4
lattice energies decreases as the size of the halide ion  Thermal Stability:
increases. Li2SO4 < Na2SO4 < K2SO4 < Rb2SO4 < Cs2SO4
 For the same halide ion, the melting point of
lithium halides are lower than those of the # Metal Nitrates (MNO3)
corresponding sodium halides and thereafter they  Ionic character:
decrease as we move down the group from Na to Cs. LiNO3 < NaNO3 < KNO3 < RbNO3 < CsNO3
 The low melting point of LiCl (887 K) as  Solubility:
compared to NaCl is probably because LiCl is LiNO3 < NaNO3 < KNO3 < RbNO3 < CsNO3
covalent in nature and NaCl is ionic.  MP & BP:
LiNO3 < NaNO3 < KNO3 < RbNO3 < CsNO3
N.B.  Thermal Stability:
1
 Solubility  Hydration energy  LiNO3 < NaNO3 < KNO3 < RbNO3 < CsNO3
𝐿𝑎𝑡𝑡𝑖𝑐𝑒 𝑒𝑛𝑒𝑟𝑔𝑦
 Hydration energy 
𝐶ℎ𝑎𝑟𝑔𝑒  Only LiNO3 gives Li2O, NO2 and O2 on heating
𝑆𝑖𝑧𝑒 while rest of the nitrates give nitrite and oxygen on
𝑧 +𝑧 −
 Lattice energy  heating.
𝑟 ∆
 4LiNO3 → 2Li2O + NO2 + O2
# Metal Hydroxide (MOH) ∆
 2NaNO3 → 2NaNO2 + O2
 Basic strength of hydroxide increases with the ∆
increasing electropositivity of metal.  2KNO3 → 2KNO2 + O2
 Basic Order:
LiOH < NaOH < KOH < RbOH < CsOH # Metal Bicarbonates (MHCO3)
 The hydroxides of alkali metals behave as strong  Solid except LiHCO3
bases due to their low ionization energies which  Ionic character:
decrease down the group. The decrease in ionization LiHCO3< NaHCO3< KHCO3< RbHCO3< CsHCO3
energies leads to weakening of the bond between  MP & BP:

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LiHCO3< NaHCO3< KHCO3< RbHCO3< CsHCO3  LiF and Li2O are comparatively less soluble in
 Solubility: water than the corresponding compounds of other
LiHCO3< NaHCO3< KHCO3< RbHCO3< CsHCO3 alkali metals.
 Thermal stability:
LiHCO3< NaHCO3< KHCO3< RbHCO3< CsHCO3 # Diagonal Relationship
 Metal bicarbonates on heating gives carbonates, Lithium shows resemblance with magnesium, an
CO2 and H2O. element of group 2. This resemblance is termed as
∆ diagonal relationship
 2NaHCO3 → Na2CO3 + CO2 + H2O
 That is why baking soda (NaHCO3) is used as Group 1 Group 2
leavening agent to raise cookies, cakes etc. It is Li Be
decomposed to CO2 and water upon heating. This
makes the cookies porous and palatable. Na Mg
# Reasons for Diagonal Relationship
# Anomalous Behaviour of Li  Electronegativities of Li and Mg are quite
Due to small size of Li, it has high tendency of comparable (Li = 1.00, Mg = 1.20).
polarization and due to high density of electrical  Atomic radii and ionic radii of Li and Mg are not
charge. It shows difference with other alkali metals. very much different.
 Li is hard, due to which it’s melting and boiling  Atomic radii (Å): Li = 1.52, Mg = 1.60
points are higher as compared to other metals.  Ionic radii (Å): Li+ = 0.76, Mg2+ = 0.72
 LiOH is weak base compared to other  Atomic volumes of Li (12.97 mL/mole) and Mg
hydroxides. (13.97 mL/mole) are quite similar.
 Li forms single type of oxide (Li2O), whereas
other can form peroxide and super oxide. # Similarity between Li & Mg
 LiCl is insoluble in water, whereas, other  Both are harder and lighter than other elements
chlorides are soluble, LiCl gets dissolved in in their respective groups.
benzene, petrol and ether.  Both have high polarising power (ionic
 Due to small size of Li+, its hydration energy is potential)
high.  Nitrates of both decomposes to give oxide,
 Due to high hydration energy of Li, its whereas all other alkali metal nitrates give nitrite.
conductivity is low.  Both reacts slowly with water.
 Li does not get affected easily by moist air.  Oxides and hydroxides of both less soluble in
Therefore, it can be kept open in the air, whereas, water.
other metals form oxides.  Hydroxides of both decomposes on heating and
 Li directly combines with N2 to form Li3N give respective oxides and water.
∆
whereas, other metal do not form nitrides. 2LiOH → Li2O + H2O
 Phosphate, oxalate, chloride, fluoride, sulphate ∆
Mg(OH)2 → MgO + H2O
and carbonate of Li are insoluble in water, whereas  Both forms nitride, Li3N and Mg3N2, by direct
the above compounds of other alkali metals are combination with nitrogen.
soluble.  Bicarbonate of both are not solid.
 Due to small size of Li, its ionisation potential  Carbonates of both decomposes on heating and
electronegativity and electron affinity are higher give respective oxides and CO2.
than those of the other alkali metals.  Chloride of both are soluble in organic solvent
 Due to covalent nature of LiCl, their melting and like ethanol.
boiling points are lower than those of the other alkali  Chloride of both are deliquescent and crystallise
metal halides. as LiCl.2H2O and MgCl2.8H2O.
 Li is least reactive but strongest reducing agent
among all the alkali metals.
 LiCl is deliquescent and crystallises as a hydrate, SODIUM (11Na23)
LiCl.2H2O whereas other alkali metal chlorides do # Occurrence
not form hydrates.  Sodium is present in earth crust as sodium
 Li unlike other alkali metals forms no ethynide aluminosilicates (2.27%).
on reaction with ethyne.  The most common compound of sodium is NaCl,
 LiNO3 when heated gives Li2O, whereas other that is rock salt or lake salt and it has FCC unit cell
alkali metal nitrates decompose to give nitrite. structure.
∆  The coordination number is 6 for both Na+ and
4LiNO3 → 2Li2O + NO2 + O2 Cl− .
∆
2NaNO3 → 2NaNO2 + O2  Important compounds of sodium are:
∆ Soda feldspar Na2OAl2O3.6SiO2
2KNO3 → 2KNO2 + O2
Cryolite Na3AlF6

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Chile sal petre NaNO3  It is a white crystalline, deliquescent, soapy solid
Glauber's salt Na2SO4.10H2O with a melting point of 180oC.
Borax Na2B4O7.10H2O  Basic nature:
 It was isolated by Davey by the electrolysis of NaOH + HNO3  NaNO3 + H2O
fused NaOH.  Reactions with metals
Group IA metal + NaOH  No reaction
# Preparation of Sodium Other metals + NaOH  Na2MO2 + H2 
Sodium metalate
# Down's method M may be Zn, Sn, Pb, Be
 Sodium is obtained by electrolysis of fused
NaCl.  Reactions with non-metals
 Here, CaCl2 + KF lowers the melting point of 2B + 6NaOH  2Na3BO3 + 3H2
Sodium borate
NaCl [800°C to 600°C].
 NaCl ⇌ Na+ + Cl− 2NaOH + Si + H2O  Na2SiO3 + 2H2
Sodium silicate
At cathode (Iron rod):
P4 + 3NaOH + 3H2O  3NaH2PO2 + PH3
Na+ + e−  Na Sodium hypophosphite
At anode (Graphic rod): 4S + 6NaOH  Na2S2O3 + 2Na2S + 3H2O
2Cl− + 2e−  Cl2 + 2e− Sodium Thiosulphate
(Hypo)
# Castner Process 2NaOH + X2  NaOX + NaX + H2O
 Here electrolysis of NaOH is carried out at Dil. and cold Sodium hypohalate
330°C using iron cathode and nickel anode 6NaOH + 3X2  5NaX + NaXO3 + 3H2O
2NaOH ⇌ 2Na+ + 2OH − Hot and conc. Sodium halite
At cathode:
2Na+ + 2e−  2Na(s)  Reactions with salts
At anode: FeCl3
NaOH → Fe (OH)3
4OH − + 2e−  2H2O + O2 + 4e− (Red-brown precipitate)
 During electrolysis, oxygen and water are HgCl2 ∆
produced. Water formed at the anode gets partly NaOH → Hg(OH)3 → H2O + HgO 
Yellow
evaporated and is partly broken down. Whereas, the AgNO3 ∆
hydrogen is discharged at cathode. NaOH → AgOH → Ag2O 
H2O ⇌ H+ + OH − Brown
AlCl3 Na
At cathode: NaOH → Al(OH)3 → NaAlO2
2H+ + 2e−  2H  H2  Sodium metaaluminate
When NaOH is added to the given metallic
Compounds of sodium compounds, their sodium metalates are formed.

# Caustic soda or sodium hydroxide (NaOH) SnCl2 + 2NaOH  Sn(OH)2

or ZnCl2 or Zn(OH)2
# Preparation of sodium hydroxide or Pb(NO3)2 or Pb(OH)2

Electrolysis of brine solution [aqueous NaCl] 2NaOH

 For the electrolysis of aqueous NaCl, electrolytic Na2SnO2 + 2H2O

cells like Nelson, Castner-Kellner and Solvay cells or Na2ZnO2 or Na2PbO2
are used.
 Here NaOH, C12, H2 are formed.  Uses of NaOH
 The following reactions occur:  In hydrolysis of ester and saponification.
NaCl ⇌ Na+ + Cl−  In refining of bauxite (by Baeyer's method).
H2O ⇌ H+ + OH −  In the synthesis of hydrogen (Uyeno method)
At anode (graphite): 2Al + 2NaOH + 2H2O  2NaAlO2 + 3H2 
2Cl−  Cl2 + 2e−
At cathode (mercury): # Sodium chloride (NaCl)
2Na+ + 2e− + Hg  2Na-Hg  It is called common salt or rock salt or sea salt or
2Na-Hg + 2H.OH  2NaOH + H2 +2Hg table salt.
 It is a white crystalline solid which is
# Properties of NaOH hygroscopic in nature.
 Sea water contains nearly 2.95% NaCl.
 28% aqueous NaCl solution is called brine.

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 Preparations of Sodium chloride It is mainly strong heating
Na2CO3.10H2O → Na2CO3 → X
manufactured from sea water by evaporation under −10H2 O
the heat of the sun. As it contains impurities of (No dissociation)
MgCl2, CaCl2, CaSO4, so it is further purified by  Reaction with lead acetate
passing HCl gas, where due to common ion effect 3(CH3COO)2Pb + 3Na2CO3 + H2O 
pure NaCl gets precipitated. 2PbCO3Pb(OH)2 + CO2 + 6CH3COONa
Basic lead
carbonate
# Sodium bicarbonate or baking soda  Reaction with copper sulphate
(NaHCO3) 2CuSO4 + 2Na2CO3 + H2O  Cu(OH)2.CuCO3 +
 Preparation: Na2CO3 + CO2 + H2O  2NaHCO3 CO2 + Na2SO4
 NaHCO3 gives yellow colour with methyl red or Basic copper carbonate
methyl orange but no colour with phenolphthalein.  Reaction with silica
 It is a white crystalline solid, partially soluble in Na2CO3 + SiO2  Na2SiO3 + CO2 
water. Its aqueous solution is basic.  It is used for softening hard water, refining of
 It is used to cure acidity in stomach and is used petrol and in the manufacture of glass and borax.
in the making of baking powder (sodium  Na2CO3 + K2CO3 is a fusion mixture.
bicarbonate + potassium hydrogen tartarate).  Na2CO3 gives pink colour with HPH, yellow
colour with MeOH or methyl red and blue colour
# Sodium carbonate or washing soda with red litmus.
Na2CO3.10H2O
 Na2CO3 is termed as soda-ash while # Biological Importance of Na
Na2CO3.H2O is called crystal carbonate.  Sodium ions are primarily found inside the
 Solvay ammonia soda process Na2CO3 is human cells such as Nerve Cells.
industrially prepared by Solvay method using NaCl,  They regulate the flow of water across the
CaCO3 and NH3 membrane.
as follows:  They are needed for transport of sugars and
amino acids into the cells.
NH3 + H2O + CO2  NH4HCO3  Sodium maintains the electrolyte balance in the
NaCl
body. Salts of sodium such as sodium chloride is
NH4HCO3 → NaHCO3 + NH4Cl used as a preservative in pickling.
 A normal serum sodium level is about 135-145
2NaHCO3 → Na2CO3 + H2O + CO2  mmol/L. A drop in sodium levels in the blood
above 100o C
plasma below a reference value is known as
 Here Na2CO3, NaHCO3, CaCl2 are obtained as Hyponatremia. Hyponatremia leads to headache,
byproducts. nausea, coma, seizures etc.
 NaHCO3 is precipitated owing to its low
solubility product value. # Biological Importance of K
 Since KHCO3 cannot be precipitated due to its  Potassium ions maintain the osmolarity (the
high solubility product value, so it cannot be concentration of a solution expressed as the total
prepared by this method and also cannot be used in number of solute particles per litre) of the cell.
the preparation of K2CO3.  They also regulate the opening and the closing of
the stomata.
# Properties of sodium carbonate  Potassium ions acts as cofactor for certain
 It is a white crystalline solid, partially soluble in enzymes such as pyruvate kinase. Potassium is
water and its aqueous solution is basic. important in heart function and in skeleton and
 Efflorescence muscle contraction.
Air  Diets with low potassium leads to hypertension.
Na2CO3.10H2O → Na2CO3.H2O + 9H2O It maintains the electrolyte balance in the body.
Powder form
(loss of weight)
 Effect of heating

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 S Block
Group 2 (Alkaline Earth Metals)
Property Be Mg Ca Sr Ba Ra
At. No 4 12 20 38 56 88
At Mass 9.01 24.31 40.08 87.62 137.33 226.03
E.C [He]2s2 [Ne]3s2 [Ar]4s2 [Kr]5s2 [Xe]6s2 [Rn]7s2
Hionisation(I) 899 737 590 549 503 509
(kJ/mol)
Hionisation(II) 1757 1450 1145 1064 965 979
(kJ/mol)
Hhydration –2494 –1921 –1577 –1443 –1305 –
(kJ/mol)
Metallic 111 160 197 215 222 –
Radius (pm)
Ionic radius 31 72 100 118 135 148
M2+(pm)
MP (K) 1560 924 1124 1062 1002 973
BP (K) 2745 1363 1767 1655 2078 1973
Density 1.84 1.74 1.55 2.63 3.59 5.5
(g/cc)
𝐸𝑀°
2+/𝑀 –1.97 –2.36 –2.84 –2.89 –2.92 –2.92
(Volt)
Occurrence 2 ppm 2.76 w/w 4.6 w/w 384 ppm 390 ppm 10–6 ppm
Flame – – Brick Red Blood Red Apple Green Crimson
Colour
E.N 1.5 1.2 1.0 1.0 0.9 –
** Source NCERT

# Oxidation State # Flame Test [p

 These metals exhibit + 2 oxidation state.  Size of Be and Mg is very small and their
 Difference of their second and first ionisation electrons are strongly bonded to the nucleus. These
potentials is 11 eV. Therefore, their + 2 oxidation electrons cannot be excited to higher energy level by
state of these metals is more stable. the flame of the burner. Thus, Be and Mg do not
impart any colour to the flame.
# Density Be Mg Ca Sr Ba Ra
 Atomic weight increase from Be to Ba in a group – – Brick Blood Apple Crimson
and volume also increases, but increase in atomic Red Red Green
weight is more as compared to volume. Therefore,
density increases from Be to Ba. # Photoelectric Effect
 Exception: Density of Be & Mg is more than  Due to small size of these metals as compared to
that of Ca. In Ca, 3d orbital is vacant, 3rd orbit has alkali metals, their ionisation potential is high. Thus,
the capacity to hold 18e- but it has only 8e-. Due to electrons can be released only by high energy
empty orbital atomic volumes increases and so radiations.
density decreases.  Group 2 elements has very less tendency to
 Density: Ca < Mg < Be < Sr < Ba exhibit photoelectric effect.

# Standard Electrode Potential # Solubility in Liquid Ammonia

 Size of these metals is smaller than that of alkali  Due to small size of Be and Mg. Their ionisation
metals. Therefore, their ionisation potential will be potential is high. Therefore, they do not dissolve in
higher than those of alkali metals, i.e. they have low liquefied ammonia. Ca, Sr and Ba give ammoniated
tendency of donating electron as compared to alkali electron by getting dissolved in liquefied ammonia
metals. Their standard electrode potentials due to large size, due to which the solution turns
(oxidation potentials) are lower than those of alkali blue.
metals and increases in the group with the increases M + (x+y)NH3 → [M(NH3)x]2+ + 2[e(NH3)y]–
in atomic size from Be to Ba. Ca + nNH3 → Ca+2 + 2e–(NH3)n
 Be < Mg < Ca < Sr < Ba

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 From these solution, the ammonia complex of  These metals are harder than the metals of IA
metals (ammoniates) can be obtained on group.
evaporation.  Order of hardness: Be > Mg > Ca > Sr > Ba.
 The solution is a good conductor of electricity  They have BCC, HCP and FCC structures, i.e.,
and a strong reducing agent. packing efficiency is more than that of the elements
of IA group.
# Hydration Energy
 Hydration energy decreases on going # MP & BP
downwards in the group, due to increase in the size  Melting and boiling points of these metals are
of cations. low, but these metals are harder as compared to
Be2+ > Mg2+ > Ca2+ > Sr2+ > Ba2+ metals of IA group. Thus, their melting and boiling
 Hydration energy of the metal ions (M2+) is points are higher as compared to metals of IA group.
higher than that of the elements of IA group, because  Hardness decreases from Be to Ba, due to which
the size of these cations is small and charge is high. melting and boiling points decrease.
Thus, compounds of Group 2 are more extensively  MP: Mg < Ba < Sr < Ca < Be
hydrated than those of Group 1 e.g., MgCl2 and  BP: Mg < Sr < Ca < Ba < Be
CaCl2 exist as MgCl2.6H2O and CaCl2.6H2O while  Higher melting and boiling points of Ca than Mg
NaCl and KCl do not form such hydrates. are due to the presence of d-orbitals in its outermost
shell, which starts from Ca. The d-orbital forms
# Reactivity strong metallic bond.
 Due to small size of these metals as compared to Property Be Mg Ca Sr Ba
alkali metals, the alkaline earth metals are less MP (K) 1560 924 1124 1062 1002
reactive than the alkali metals. BP (K) 2745 1363 1767 1655 2078
 Their reactivity increases from Be to Ba with
increase in the size of the metal. # Reducing nature
 Beryllium does not react with hot water, Mg  The alkaline earth metals have the tendency to
reacts with hot water, whereas Ca, Sr and Ba react lose electrons and change into bivalent cation.
even with cold water.  M → M2+ + 2e– ; Hence they act as strong
 All these metals react with oxygen to form MO reducing agents.
type oxides (M = Be, Mg, Ca, Sr and Ba), but due to  Reducing nature: Be < Mg < Ca < Sr < Ba
low ionisation potential and high reactivity, Ca, Sr  Reducing nature of Group 2 is less than Group1.
and Ba form peroxides also at low temperature.  Be has less negative reduction potential
 Be and Mg are less reactive due to their high compared to other alkaline earth metals due to large
ionisation potential and they form normal oxides hydration enthalpy associated with small size of
because of breaking of O = O bond. Be2+ and relatively large value of atomization
enthalpy of the metal.
# Lustrous Surface Property Be Mg Ca Sr Ba Ra
 Lustre is due to mobile electron in the metallic °
𝐸𝑀 2+ /𝑀 – – – – – –
lattice. Valence electrons generated vibration in the (Volt) 1.97 2.36 2.84 2.89 2.92 2.92
electrical field of the light waves.
 The vibrating electrons emit electromagnetic # Chemical Properties
energy in the form of light, and thus the surface of # Reaction With O2
these metals starts shining.  Except Ba and Ra, all other metals when burnt in
oxygen form oxide of type MO.
# Tendency of Forming Complex Compound  2M + O2→ 2MO
 These metals have weak tendency of forming  Except BeO (covalent), all MO exhibit rock salt
complex compounds due to large size, low charge structure.
density and absence of vacant orbitals.  Ba forms peroxide with O2.
 But these metals have higher tendency of Ba + O2 → BaO2
forming complex compounds as compared to alkali  BeO is amphoteric in nature while other oxides
metals, due to their relatively smaller size. are basic in nature.
 This tendency decreases from Be to Ba.  MO + H2O → M(OH)2 + heat.
 Basic nature of oxide:
# Strength of Metallic Bonds (Softness) BeO < MgO < CaO < SrO < BaO
 There are two electrons in the outermost shell of
these metals, which participate in bond formation. # Action of Water
Therefore, metallic bond is weak, but a little bit  Be is not attacked by water at any temperature.
stronger than the elements of IA group.  Mg decomposes boiling water.

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 Ca, Sr, Ba, Ra decomposes cold water with
evolution of H2 gas.
 M + 2H2O → M(OH)2
 Be(OH)2 is amphoteric, but other hydroxides are
basic.
 Basic strength:  BeF2 is prepared by thermal decomposition of
BeO < MgO < CaO < SrO < BaO ammonium tetrafluoroberyllate.
(NH4)2BeF4 → 2NH3 + 2HF + BeF2
# Hydride Formation – MH2  Gaseous BeF2 adopts a linear structure while
 Except Be, all other metals directly combines liquid BeF2 have a fluctuating tetrahedral structure.
with hydrogen to form hydrides of the type MH2.  Solid BeF2 is a 3-dimensional polymer, with a
 BeH2 and MgH2 are covalent hydride while other structure similar to that of quartz.
hydrides are ionic in nature.
 Ionic hydrides are violently decomposed by
water evolving hydrogen.
 MH2 + + 2H2O → M(OH)2
 BeH2 can be prepared by the reaction of BeCl2
with LiAlH4.
2BeCl2 + LiAlH4 → 2BeH2 + LiCl + AlCl3
 BeH2 exist in polymeric form with H-bridge
bond(3c-2e bond)

 BeF2 is very soluble in water due to the high

hydration energy of the small Be+2ion. The other
fluorides (MgF2, CaF2, SrF2 and BaF2) are almost
# Halides – MX2 insoluble in water.
 Metals directly combines with X2 to form  Since on descending the group lattice energy
halides. decreases more rapidly than the hydration energy.
 MX2 cab be prepared as follows: Therefore whatever little solubility these fluorides
 M + X2→ MX2. have that increase down the group.
 M + 2HX → MX2 + H2  The chlorides, bromides and iodides of all other
 MO + 2HX → MX2 + H2O elements i.e. Mg, Ca, Sr, Ba are ionic have much
 M (OH)2 + 2HX → MX2 + 2H2O lower melting points than the fluorides and are
 MCO3 + 2HX → MX2 + H2O + CO2 readily soluble in water. The solubility decreases
 BeX2 is covalent in nature, whereas other metal some what with increasing atomic number.
halides are ionic solids.  Except of BeCl2 and MgCl2, the other chlorides
 These halides are hygroscopic in nature and of alkaline earth metals impart characteristics colour
readily form hydrates e.g., MgCl2.8H2O, to flame.
CaCl2.6H2O, SrCl2.6H2O, BaCl2.2H2O, etc.  CaCl2 = Brick red colour
 The tendency of forming hydrates decreases  SrCl2 = Crimson colour
from top to bottom.  BaCl2 = Grassy green colour
 The hydrated chloride, bromides and iodides of
Ca, Sr and Ba can be dehydrated on heating but those # Hydroxides – M(OH)2
of Be and Mg undergo hydrolysis.  M(OH)2 are sparingly soluble.
 BeCl2 is prepared from BeO  Solubility: Be(OH)2 < Mg(OH)2 < Ca(OH)2 <
600−800𝐾 Sr(OH)2 < Ba(OH)2
BeO + C + Cl2 → BeCl2 + CO
 Thermal Stability: Be(OH)2 < Mg(OH)2 <
 BeCl2 (solid) is a 1-dimensional polymer
Ca(OH)2 < Sr(OH)2 < Ba(OH)2
consisting of edge-shared tetrahedra.
 Basic strength: Be(OH)2 < Mg(OH)2 < Ca(OH)2
< Sr(OH)2 < Ba(OH)2
 Hydroxide of Group 2 is less basic and stable
than Group 2.
 Be(OH)2 is amphoteric in nature and can react
both with acid as well as base.
 In the gas phase, BeCl2 exists both as a linear  With alkalis it dissolves to form the
monomer and a bridged dimer with two bridging tetrahydroxoberyllate/tetrahydroxidoberyllate
chlorine atoms where the beryllium atom is 3- anion, [Be(OH)4]2−.
coordinate. 2NaOH(aq) + Be(OH)2(s) → Na2[Be(OH)4](aq)

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 With acids, beryllium salts are formed.
Be(OH)2 + H2SO4 → BeSO4 + 2H2O # Anomalous Behaviour of Be
Be(OH)2 + 2HCl → BeCl2 + 2H2O  Beryllium exhibits different behaviour due to
 In aqueous medium Be(OH)2 with HCl gives the small size as compared to other elements of its
hydrated salt, BeCl2.4H2O or [Be(H2O)4]Cl2. group.
(But, it cannot be [Be(OH)4]Cl2 as given in  Ionisation potential and electronegativity of Be
NCERT because Be will have impossible are higher than those of other metals.
oxidation state of +6.)  BeCl2 is insoluble in water, due to its covalent
Be(OH)2 + 2HCl + 2H2O → [Be(H2O)4]Cl2 nature, but soluble in organic solvents, while other
 Beryllium hydroxide dehydrates at 400 °C to chlorides(CaCl2, SrCl2 and BaCl2) get dissolved in
form the soluble white powder, beryllium oxide water.
Be(OH)2 → BeO + H2O  BeCl2 gets hydrolysed due to its covalent nature,
while chlorides of Ca, Sr and Ba get dissociated.
# Carbonates & Bicarbonates – MCO3 &  BeO and Be(OH)2 are amphoteric in nature.
M(HCO3)2 Therefore they react with acids as well as bases.
 Carbonates of metals are insoluble in water, they Other oxides react only with acids due to their
dissolve in presence of CO2 only. alkaline nature
 MCO3 + H2O + CO2→ M(HCO3)2. BeO + 2NaOH + H2O → Na[Be(OH)4]
 Solubility of carbonates: BeCO3 > MgCO3 > Sodium beryllate

CaCO3 > SrCO3 > BaCO3 BeO + 2HCl → BeCl2 + H2O

∆
 MCO3 → MO + CO2  Beryllium forms single type of oxide (MO), Ca,
 Thermal stability: BeCO3 < MgCO3 < CaCO3 < Sr and Ba form peroxides also.
SrCO3 < BaCO3  Hydration energy of Be is higher than that of
 M(HCO3)2 doesn’t exist in solid state. other metals.
∆  Beryllium does not give flame test, Ca, Sr and Ba
 M(HCO3)2 → MCO3 + CO2 + H2O impart characteristic colours to the flame.
 Due to small size, Be forms complex compounds
# Sulphates – MSO4 while other not.
 M + H2SO4 → MSO4 + H2  Hydrides and halides of Be get polymerizes.
 MO + H2SO4 → MSO4 + H2O  Beryllium does not react with water even at high
 M (OH)2 + H2SO4 → MSO4 + 2H2O temperatures. Others (Ca, Sr and Ba) react even with
 MCO3 + H2SO4 → MSO4 + CO2 + H2O cold water.
 Solubility of sulphates: BeSO4 > MgSO4 >
CaSO4 > SrSO4 > BaSO4. # Diagonal Relationship (Similarities
 The greater hydration enthalpies of Be2+& between Be & Al)
Mg2+ions overcome the lattice enthalpy factor and Beryllium shows some similarities in properties with
hence soluble in water. aluminium, the second typical element of group 13
∆ of the next higher period.
 Heating effect: MSO4 → MO + SO3
 Thermal stability: BeSO4 < MgSO4 < CaSO4 < Group 2 Group 13
SrSO4 < BaSO4. Second period Be B
Third period Mg Al
# Nitrates – M(NO3)2
 MCO3 + 2HNO3→ M(NO3)2 + CO2 + H2O. # Cause of Diagonal Relationship
 Down the tendency of water crystallisation  The polarising power of Be2+ and Al3+ ions is
decreases. E.g. Mg(NO3)2.6H2O, Ba(NO3)2. high. Consequently the compounds develop
∆ covalent nature.
 Heating effect: 2M(NO3)2 → 2MO + NO2 + O2  The standard oxidation potential values of both
 Thermal stability: Be(NO3)2 < Ng(NO3)2 < the elements are very close to each other.
Ca(NO3)2 < Sr(NO3)2 < Ba(NO3)2  The electronegativity values of both the elements
 Solubility: Be(NO3)2 > Ng(NO3)2 > Ca(NO3)2 > are the same.
Sr(NO3)2 > Ba(NO3)2
# Similarities between Be & Al
# Complex Formation  Both Be and Al not readily get attacked by acids
 Be2+ and Mg2+ due to their small size show some due to formation of thin film of oxide on the surface
tendency of complex formation. of metal.
 Ex. [BeF3]–, [BeF4]2– and [Be(H2O)4]2+,  Hydroxide of both dissolved in excess of alkali
chlorophyll (Complex of Mg) to give beryllate ion, [Be(OH)4]– and aluminate ion,
[Al(OH)4]–.

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 S Block
 Both have strong tendency to form complexes,
[BeF4]2–, [AlF6]3–. 3000o C
 CaO + 3C → CaC2 + CO 
 Chlorides of Be and Al are strong Lewis acid. Calcium carbide
 Chlorides of Be and Al are soluble in organic
solvent due to its covalent nature.
H2O N2(∆)
 Chlorides of Be and Al form chlorine bridge
bond in vapour phase.
C2H2 + Ca(OH)2 CaCN2 + C
Nitrolim (fertilizer)
 Uses of calcium oxide
 It is used in the manufacture of glass,
cement, bleaching powder, soda-lime.
 It is used as a basic flux.
 It is used as a drying agent (NH3, C2H5OH).
 In the refining of sugar.

# Calcium hydroxide or slacked lime

Ca(OH)2
CALCIUM (20Ca40)
 Preparation
# Occurrence CaO + H2O  Ca(OH)2 + Heat
 Ca3(PO4)2 is present in bones and teeth, while
CaCO3 is present in protective shells of marine  Properties
animals. Ca(OH)2 + CO2 → CaCO3 + H2O
 In mineral form it is present as:
CaCO3 limestone, marble, chalk or calcite Ca(OH)2 + CO2 → Ca(HCO3)2
Excess
CaSO4.2H2O gypsum 30o C
CaCO3.MgCO3 dolomite Ca(OH)2 + Cl2 → Ca(OCl)Cl + H2O
CaF2 fluorspar Bleaching Powder

Ca3(PO4)2 phosphorite red hot

Ca(OH)2 + Cl2 → CaCl2 + H2O
3Ca3(PO4)2.Ca(OH)2 hydroxyapatite
Ca(OH)2 + NH4Cl → CaCl2 + NH3 + H2O
# Extraction of Calcium
 Calcium is obtained by electrolysis of
2Ca(OH)2 + 2Cl2  CaCl2 + 2H2O + Ca(OCl)2
CaCl2.CaF2 is added to decrease its melting point. cold & Dilute Calcium Hypochlorite
700o C
–
CaCl2 → 2+
Ca + 2Cl 6Ca(OH)2 + 6C12  5CaCl2 + 6H2O + Ca(ClO3)2
At cathode: Ca2+ + 2e–  Ca Hot & Conc. Calcium Chlorate

At anode: 2Cl−  Cl2 + 2e–  It is used in softening of water, purification of

coal gas, and sugar.
# Compounds of Calcium
# Calcium oxide or marble or limestone
# Calcium oxide or quick-lime (CaO) (CaCO3)
 Also called lime or burnt lime.  Preparation
 It is prepared by the following method: Ca(OH)2 + CO2  CaCO3 + H2O
CaCO3 →
1000℃
CaO + CO2 CaCl2 + Na2CO3  CaCO3 + 2NaCl
 Properties of CaO  Uses of calcium oxide It is used in preparation of
 Addition of water to lime is called slaking of cement, washing soda (NaHCO3 by Solvay method).
lime
H2 O # Calcium sulphate dihydrate or gypsum
CaO → Ca(OH)2 (CaSO4.2H2O)
Slaked lime/Lime Water
Naturally occurring calcium sulphate is called
 [Ca(OH)2 + H2O] = Milk of lime. alabaster.
 CaO + CO2 → CaCO3  Preparation of calcium sulphate dihydrate
 CaO + SiO2 →CaSiO3 CaCl2 + H2SO4  CaSO4 + 2HCl
 6CaO + P4O10 → 2Ca3(PO4)2 CaCl2 + Na2SO4  CaSO4 + 2NaCl

 Properties of calcium sulphate dihydrate

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 S Block
 On heating, gypsum gives plaster of paris  The clinker is mixed with 2-3% by weight of
(calcium sulphate hemihydrate). Plaster of paris gypsum [CaSO4.2H2O] to form cement.
when mixed with water, gives a hard mass.  Important ingredients present in Portland cement
 Gypsum, on heating at 200°C, gives anhydrous are dicalcium silicate [Ca2SiO4) 26%, tricalcium
calcium sulphate known as dead burnt plaster. silicate (Ca3SiO5) 51% and tricalcium aluminate
(Ca3Al2O6) 11%.
120oC
2CaSO4.2H2O ⇔ (CaSO4)2H2O + 3H2O
Setting (∆H = -Ve)
Plaster of paris # Setting of Cement
 When mixed with water, the setting of cement
∆ 200 C o
takes place to give a hard mass.
 This is due to the hydration of the molecules of
2CaSO4 + H2O
Dead burnt constituents and their rearrangement.
plaster  The purpose of adding gypsum is only to slow
down the process of setting of the cement so that it
gets sufficiently hardened.
 Uses of calcium sulphate dihydrate
 Gypsum is used in the manufacture of plaster of
# Biological Importance of Mg
paris,
 Activity of enzymes: Mg plays a crucial role in
cement and black board chalk.
the biochemical reactions occurring in our body. The
 Plaster of paris is used to plaster broken bones,
main role of this ion in the body is to regulate the
making statues, toys and chalks.
functions of enzymes which in turn are responsible
for various chemical reactions. Magnesium as an
# Bleaching powder CaOCl2 or Ca(OCl)Cl
enzyme co-factor plays an important role in the
It is also known as calcium chloro hypochlorite or
breakage of glucose and fat molecules, in the
chloride of lime.
production of enzymes, proteins and regulation of
cholesterol.
Preparation of bleaching powder
 Acts as fuel source: It plays an important role in
It is prepared by passing current on chlorine over dry
the production of energy within the cells.Without the
slaked lime. The methods used are Bachmann
sufficient supply of this ion nutrients cannot be
method and Hasenclever method.
converted into usable energy or ATP (adenosine
Ca(OH)2 + Cl2  CaOCl2 + H2O
Bleaching Powder triphosphate) which is the fundamental unit of
energy in human body. Production of ATP is
Properties of bleaching powder
significant to perform various actions such as cell
 It is mixture of calcium hypochlorite
reproduction, protein synthesis etc.
(CaOCl2.4H2O) and basic calcium chloride
 Protector of human DNA: DNA synthesis is not
(CaCl2.Ca(OH)2.4H2O)
possible without the sufficient supply of this ion. It
 It is an oxidizing agent and a bleaching agent.
is responsible for the stability and proper
 Cl2 (available chlorine) is generally obtained in
functioning of DNA
less amount (35%-40%) from bleaching powder by
 To maintain an electrolyte balance: It is one of
using CO2.
the most important mineral in order to maintain a
CaOCl2 + CO2  CaCO3 + Cl2 
healthy electrolytic balance in our body. Deficiency
 CoCl2 acts as a catalyst to decompose bleaching
of this ion leads to the improper functioning of
powder to liberate oxygen
CoCl2 sodium-potassium pump.
2CaOCl2 → 2CaC12 + O2 
# Biological Importance of Ca
Uses of bleaching powder  Calcium is mainly found in the bones and teeth
 It is used to purify water, to prepare CHCl3 and as of the living beings.
a germicide.  Blood is a large tank of this mineral.
 It is used for bleaching cotton and wood pulp.  It helps in blood clotting. Deficiency of calcium
increases the blood clotting time.
# Portland Cement  Calcium supports muscle contraction.
 Cement is a mixture of lime, clay and silica.  The deficiency of this metal leads to disorder of
 Composition of Portland cement: CaO (50- nerves.
60%), SiO2 (20-25%), Al2O3 (5-10%), MgO (2-  It plays a significant role in the metabolism of
3%), Fe2O3 (1-2%) and SO3 (1-2%). nitrogen in plants. Absence of this mineral in the
 When clay and lime are strongly heated together plants affects the size and number of chloroplasts.
they fuse and react to form “Cement Clinker”.

Happy S-Block

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