Is Calcium, Ca a metal or a non-metal? Explain your thinking.
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
Correct Answer:
Calcium (Ca) is a metal.
Explanation:
Calcium is classified as a metal because it exhibits the typical physical and chemical properties associated with metals. It is located in Group 2 of the periodic table, known as the alkaline earth metals. Elements in this group are all metals and share similar characteristics, such as high reactivity, especially with water, and the ability to lose electrons to form positive ions.
One major reason calcium is considered a metal is due to its electron configuration. Calcium has two electrons in its outermost shell. Like other metals, it tends to lose these electrons during chemical reactions to achieve a more stable electron configuration, similar to that of a noble gas. This results in the formation of a positively charged ion, Ca²⁺, which is a behavior typical of metals.
In its pure elemental form, calcium has a silvery-white appearance and is solid at room temperature. It is malleable and ductile, meaning it can be shaped and stretched without breaking. Calcium also conducts electricity and heat, which are defining properties of metals.
Another supporting factor is its reaction with water and acids. When calcium reacts with water, it forms calcium hydroxide and hydrogen gas, a behavior that aligns with the reactivity of other metals in the same group. For example, the reaction with water is:
Ca + 2H₂O → Ca(OH)₂ + H₂
Calcium also forms basic oxides such as calcium oxide (CaO), which reacts with water to form a base. This is again typical of metallic oxides.
In summary, calcium is a metal because it is a good conductor, forms positive ions, reacts with acids and water, and is located in the metal-rich region of the periodic table.
