The s-Block Metals

Abstract

If you look at the label on a food container you will often see E numbers listed with the ingredients (see figure 13.1). Each E number corresponds to a specific food additive. These additives include elements such as carbon, chlorine, gold(!) and silver. Most, however, are compounds—both inorganic and organic. Many of these compounds contain s-block metals. Calcium, magnesium, potassium and sodium compounds are all commonly used as food additives.