True or false: Magnesium is considered a metal because it has two valence electrons.

Magnesium is indeed classified as a metal due to its possession of two valence electrons. In the context of elements in the periodic table, metals typically have a tendency to lose electrons during chemical reactions, which aligns with magnesium's behavior. The fact that magnesium has two valence electrons means it readily forms cations by losing these electrons to achieve a more stable electronic configuration, similar to that of the nearest noble gas, neon.

Metals also generally exhibit properties such as electrical conductivity, malleability, and ductility; magnesium fits these criteria as well. As a member of the alkaline earth metals group, it shares similar characteristics with other metals in that group, further solidifying its classification as a metal. Consequently, recognizing magnesium's electronic structure and resultant behavior supports the conclusion that it qualifies as a metal.