What happens when alkaline earth metals react with water?

A common characteristic of most Alkali Metals is their ability to displace H2(g) from water. This is represented by their large, negative electrode potentials. In this event, the Group 1 metal is oxidized to its metal ion and water is reduced to form hydrogen gas and hydroxide ions. read more

Except for magnesium, alkaline earth metals react vigorously with water to release hydrogen gas. Magnesium will react more slowly with hot water only. The resulting solution is a basic solution from which the hydroxide of the metal will precipitate on evaporation.. read more

When water touches alkali metals the reaction produces hydrogen gas and a strong alkaline solution, also known as a base. The further down the element lies on the periodic table, the more severe the reaction. read more