Name the elements of group 2. Write down their electronic configurations ?

Why elements of group 2 are called alkaline earth metals?

The alkaline earth metals are denser and harder than the corresponding alkali metals. Explain ?

What is the trend of atomic and ionic radii of alkaline earth metals within the group?

The atomic and ionic radii of alkaline earth metals are smaller than those of the corresponding alkali metals. Explain.

How will you explain that alkaline earth metals have much higher melting and boiling points than those of alkali metals?

Discuss the general trends in ionisation enthalpy of the alkaline earth metals.

The first ionisation enthalpies of alkaline earth metals are higher than those of corresponding alkali metals. Explain. 

Second ionisation enthalpies of alkali metals are much higher than those of the alkaline earth metals. Explain. 

How will you explain the electropositive or metallic character of alkaline earth metals?