Here's why:
* Alkaline earth metals are a group of elements in the second column of the periodic table. They are known for their reactivity and form strong bases when they react with water.
* Calcium fits this description perfectly. It's a soft, silvery-white metal that reacts vigorously with water and acids. It's also essential for various biological processes, including bone formation and muscle function.
Other alkaline earth metals include:
* Beryllium (Be)
* Magnesium (Mg)
* Strontium (Sr)
* Barium (Ba)
* Radium (Ra)