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Chapter 2: Problem 24

Describe the changes in properties (from metals to nonmetals or from nonmetals to metals) as we move (a) down a periodic group and (b) across the periodic table from left to right.

Short Answer

Expert verified
Moving down a periodic group, the atomic size and metallic nature increase. Whereas, moving from left to right across the periodic table, the atomic size decreases, the metallic nature decreases, and the non-metallic nature increases.

Step by step solution

01

Changes in Properties Down a Periodic Group

When we move down a periodic group on the periodic table, the atomic size increases. This happens because with each step down the group, a new energy shell is added to the atoms. This increases the atomic radius. Along with this, the metallic nature also increases as we move down the group since the atomic size increase reduces the effective nuclear charge, leading the electrons to be held less tightly by the nucleus. This makes it easier for these electrons to be given up, thus enhancing the metallic character.
02

Changes in Properties Across the Periodic Table from Left to Right

When we move across the periodic table from left to right, the atomic size decreases. This trend is followed since the number of protons in the nucleus increases, attracting the electrons in the outer shells more strongly, which leads to a decrease in atomic radius. Moreover, the metallic nature tends to decrease while the non-metallic nature increases across a period from left to right. This is because ionization energies increase from left to right across a period, making it more difficult for electrons to be given up (decreasing metallic nature) and easier for atoms to gain electrons (increasing non-metallic nature).

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Most popular questions from this chapter

The elements in Group 8 A of the periodic table are called noble gases. Can you suggest what "noble" means in this context?

Estimate the relative sizes of the following species: \(\mathrm{Li}, \mathrm{Li}^{+}, \mathrm{Li}^{-}\)

Indicate the number of protons, neutrons, and electrons in each of the following species: $$ { }_{7}^{15} \mathrm{~N},{ }_{16}^{33} \mathrm{~S},{ }_{29}^{63} \mathrm{Cu},{ }_{38}^{84} \mathrm{Sr},{ }_{56}^{130} \mathrm{Ba},{ }_{74}^{186} \mathrm{~W},{ }_{80}^{202} \mathrm{Hg} $$

Describe the contributions of the following scientists to our knowledge of atomic structure: J. J. Thomson, R. A. Millikan, Ernest Rutherford, James Chadwick.

Why do all atoms of an element have the same atomic number, although they may have different mass numbers?
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