6.3 Group 0

Question 1

Group 0

Answer 1

The elements in group 0 of the periodic table are called the noble gases.
They are all non-metal, monatomic (exist as single atoms), colourless, non-flammable gases at room temperature.
The group 0 elements all have full outer shells of electrons; this electronic configuration is extremely stable.
Elements participate in reactions to complete their outer shells by losing, gaining, or sharing electrons.
The Group 0 elements do not need to do this, because of their full outer shells which makes them unreactive and inert.

Question 2

Trends in group 0

Answer 2

The noble gases have very low melting and boiling points.
They show an increase in boiling point as we move down the group due to an increase in the relative atomic mass (the atoms get larger as you move down the group).
This leads to an increase in intermolecular forces between atoms, increasing the amount of energy needed to overcome these forces to change state
Elements further down the group have higher boiling points but these still lie below 0 ºC.
Since the group 0 elements are all gases at room temperature, individual atoms are widely spaced apart, giving them low densities.
Their density increases as you move down the group.

Question 3

Uses of noble gases and electronic configuration

Answer 3

Helium - (2) they are used in balloons and airships due to it being lighter than air. Used in gas cylinders for deep sea divers for being very light.

Neon - (2,8) used in advertising signs and lights due to its bright colour.

Argon - (2,8,8) used in fluorescent light bulbs and a blanket for welding as it is very unreactive.

Krypton - (2,8,18,8) used in lasers, lighthouses and strip lighting.

Xenon - (2,8,18,18,8) used in headlights, fog lights and strobe lighting.

Radon - (2,8,18,32,18,8) used in radiotherapy to treat cancers.