What is the electron configuration of an electrically neutral alkaline earth metal? please explain

The elements in Group 2 (beryllium, magnesium, calcium, strontium, barium, and radium) are called the alkaline earth metals (see Figure below). These elements have two valence electrons, both of which reside in the outermost s sublevel. The general electron configuration of all alkaline earth metals is ns

particle   p is an electron and particle q is a neutron

your answer is a. the enthalpy of formation for a pure element in its standard state is always positive.