The second column of the periodic table contains the elements known as the alkaline earth metals. These elements are beryllium (Be), magnesium (Mg), calcium (Ca), strontium (Sr), barium (Ba), and radium (Ra). These elements are all characterized by having two valence electrons in their outermost electron shell, which gives them a +2 oxidation state. They are also relatively reactive metals, meaning that they readily lose their valence electrons to form ionic bonds with other elements. The alkaline earth metals are all relatively soft and have low densities, and they all have a silvery-white appearance. They are also all good conductors of electricity and heat.