Solubility

• All group 2 carbonates are insoluble and form white precipitates
• The solubility of group 2 sulphates decreases down the group
• The solubility of group 2 hydroxides increases down the group
• Calcium sulfate and calcium hydroxide are sparingly soluble in water
• As solubility increases down the group, the pH increases as more hydroxide ions are released
• Magnesium hydroxide is used in indigestion remedies as it is insoluble and will only react with stomach acid
• Calcium hydroxide is sparingly soluble and used in agriculture to neutralise acidic soils
• All group 2 precipitates are white