Alkaline-earth Metal (Noun)
Meaning
Any of the bivalent metals of group II of the periodic table (calcium or strontium or barium or magnesium or beryllium).
Classification
Nouns denoting substances.
Examples
- The alkaline-earth metal magnesium is a key component in the production of fireworks and flares.
- Calcium, an alkaline-earth metal, is essential for the development and maintenance of strong bones and teeth in humans.
- The alkaline-earth metal strontium is used in the manufacture of magnets and other electronic components.
- Beryllium, a lightweight alkaline-earth metal, is used in the aerospace industry due to its high strength-to-weight ratio.
- Barium, a soft and silvery alkaline-earth metal, is used in medical imaging procedures such as barium swallows and enemas.