The solubilities of carbonates decrease down the magnesium group (Group $2$) due to a decrease in:

The covalent alkaline earth metal halide $(X = Cl, Br, I)$ is:

Bleaching powder is obtained by passing chlorine on

Which alkaline earth metal sulfate has a hydration enthalpy value greater than its lattice enthalpy value?

Given below are two statements: one is labelled as Assertion $A$ and the other is labelled as Reason $R$.
Assertion $A$: Barium carbonate is insoluble in water and is highly stable.
Reason $R$: The thermal stability of the carbonates increases with increasing cationic size.
Choose the most appropriate answer from the options given below for $A$ and $R$.

Epsom salt is