Periodic Table Basics

Question 1

How are elements arranged in the periodic table

Answer 1

In order of atomic number

In groups and periods

Question 2

How is the electronic configuration of a main group element related to its position on the periodic table?

Answer 2

Number of shells = period number
Number of electrons in outer shell = group number
Number of electrons in all shells = atomic number

Question 3

Why fo elements in the same group of the periodic table have similar chemical properties?

Answer 3

• same number of electrons in outer shell

Question 4

Why do noble gases (group 0) not readily react

Answer 4

Already have complete outer shells
No need to lose share or gain electrons
Inert and don’t take part in chemical reactions

Question 5

How to deduce electronic configuration using periodic table

Answer 5

1. Find out the number of electrons in the atom from its atomic number (small number)
2. Fill in the shells from closest to nucleus, make sure each shell is full before starting a new one
3. 1st shell holds only 2 electrons but the rest hold 8

Group number = number electrons in the outer shell
Period = number of shells

Question 6

How to know if something is a metal or non metal

Answer 6

If left to B, Si, Ge,sb, Te, Po then it is a metal

If right of B, Si, As, Te, Po then it is a non metal