Is Calcium a Metal?

Yes, calcium is classified as a metal. It is a chemical element with the symbol Ca and atomic number 20. Located in Group 2 of the periodic table, calcium is an alkaline earth metal, which means it shares certain properties with other metals in this group.

Calcium is not a metal in the traditional sense like iron or copper, which are harder and more malleable. Instead, calcium is relatively soft and can react vigorously with water and other substances. Despite these differences, it still exhibits metallic characteristics, such as good electrical conductivity and the ability to lose electrons easily during chemical reactions.

Calcium plays a crucial role in biology, particularly in the skeletal system where it is essential for bone health. It is also found in many dietary sources, including dairy products, green leafy vegetables, and fortified foods.

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