Section 1 - The Periodic Table

Question 1

Why do the elements in a group react in a similar way?

Answer 1

Chemical reactions involve atoms reacting to gain a full outer shell of electrons. All of the elements in a group have the same number of electrons in their outer shell. As a result, the elements in a group react in a similar way.

Question 2

How many blocks does the periodic table have?

Answer 2

4

Question 3

What are group 1 and 2 called and why?

Answer 3

The s-block elements. Their outer electrons are in energy levels called s subshells. S subshells can accomodate up to 2 electrons.

Question 4

What are groups 3 to 0 called and why?

Answer 4

Groups 3 to 0 are called the p-block elements. Their outer electrons are in energy levels called p subshells. P subshells can accomodate up to 6 electrons.

Question 5

What is the exception with the rule that groups 3 to 0 are called the p-block elements?

Answer 5

Helium is an s-block element, even though it’s in Group 0. It’s electron configuration is 1s2.