Classify calcium as either a metal or nonmetal. Then classify it further as either a main group (representative) element, transition metal or inner transition metal.
-metal
-nonmetal
-metalloid
-main group(representative)element
-transition metal
-inner treansition metal
The correct answer and explanation is :
Calcium Classification
- Metal or Nonmetal? → Metal
- Further Classification: → Main Group (Representative) Element
Explanation (300 Words)
Calcium (Ca) is a metal because it exhibits the characteristic properties of metals, such as high electrical and thermal conductivity, malleability, ductility, and a tendency to lose electrons to form positive ions (cations). It belongs to Group 2 (IIA) of the periodic table, known as the alkaline earth metals, which includes beryllium (Be), magnesium (Mg), strontium (Sr), barium (Ba), and radium (Ra). These elements are highly reactive, though less so than the alkali metals of Group 1.
As a main group (representative) element, calcium is part of the s-block elements, meaning its valence electrons are in the outermost s-orbital (4s²). Representative elements include the elements in Groups 1, 2, and 13-18, which follow predictable trends in valency and reactivity. Calcium commonly forms a +2 oxidation state (Ca²⁺) by losing its two outermost electrons, making it highly reactive with nonmetals like oxygen and halogens.
Unlike transition metals (Groups 3-12), which have partially filled d-orbitals and exhibit multiple oxidation states, calcium has a completely filled inner electron configuration and a simple +2 charge. Inner transition metals, including the lanthanides and actinides, belong to the f-block and exhibit unique electronic properties that calcium does not possess.
Calcium is essential in biological systems, playing a crucial role in bone and teeth formation, muscle contraction, nerve signaling, and blood clotting. Industrially, it is used in metallurgy to remove impurities and in the production of cement, glass, and alloys.
Thus, calcium is classified as a metal and a main group (representative) element due to its chemical behavior, electron configuration, and placement in the periodic table.