Lithium resembles magnesium in some of its properties. Mention two such properties and given reasons for this resemblance.

Explanation

Lithium resembles with magnesium as its charge size ratio is closer to Mg. Its resemblance with Mg is known as diagonal relationship. Generally, the periodic properties show either increasing or decreasing trend along the group and vice-versa along the period which brought the diagonally situated elements to closer value.

Following characteristics can be noted
(i) Due to covalent nature, chlorides of Li and Mg ae deliquescent and soluble in alcohol and pyridine.
(ii) Carbonates of Li and Mg decompose on heating and liberate `CO_(2)`
`Li_(2)CO_(3) rarr Li_(2)O +CO_(2)`
`MgCO_(3) rarr MgO +CO_(2)`