Why are group 2 metals classified as alkaline earth metals?

Answer 1

as most of the metals of group 2 are found in earth soil in large amount and they are alkaline metals. This is the main reason for calling alkaline earth metals.

Answer 2

Group 2 metals are classified as alkaline earth metals because they share similar properties: they are shiny, silvery-white, relatively reactive metals with two electrons in their outer shell. They react with water to form alkaline solutions and are generally less reactive than the alkali metals in Group 1.