Which of the following statements correctly describes a similarity and a difference between alkali metals and alkaline earth metals?

• A. Alkali metals are less reactive than alkaline earth metals, and both groups are found in Group 2 of the periodic table.
• B. Both groups are nonmetals and have similar reactivity, but alkali metals are gases while alkaline earth metals are solids.
• C. Both groups are metals and highly reactive, but alkali metals have one valence electron while alkaline earth metals have two.
• D. Alkali metals and alkaline earth metals both have two valence electrons, but only alkali metals are reactive.

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the groups in the periodic table: Alkali metals belong to Group 1, and alkaline earth metals belong to Group 2.
2. Recall the general properties of alkali metals: they are metals, highly reactive, and have one valence electron.
3. Recall the general properties of alkaline earth metals: they are also metals, reactive but less so than alkali metals, and have two valence electrons.
4. Compare the reactivity and valence electrons of both groups to find similarities and differences.
5. Evaluate each statement based on these facts to determine which correctly describes both a similarity and a difference.