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Chapter 2: Problem 68

The elements in Group \(8 \mathrm{~A}\) of the periodic table are called noble gases. Can you guess the meaning of "noble" in this context?

Short Answer

Expert verified
The term 'noble' refers to the low reactivity of the elements in Group 8A. This is due to their complete valence electron shells, which contribute to their overall stability and their preference not to react or mix with other elements, hence earning them the term 'noble'.

Step by step solution

01

Understanding the term 'Noble'

The term 'noble' is often used to denote something that's superior, often in purity or quality. It is derived from a term that translates to 'known', since to be known in olden times implied a societal ranking.
02

Identifying the Noble Gases and their Properties

Noble gases are the elements in Group 8A of the periodic table, including helium (He), neon (Ne), argon (Ar), krypton (Kr), xenon (Xe), radon (Rn), and oganesson (Og). The most important characteristic holding these gases together as a group is that they carry a full valence shell, meaning they have the maximum number of electrons possible in their outermost 'shell' or energy level. As a result, they are extremely stable, and don't react with other elements or compounds under normal conditions.
03

Connecting the 'Noble' Terminology with Noble Gases

The term 'noble' in noble gases can be reasoned with the their behaviors. Like how the term 'noble' signified distinguished individuals who didn't mingle with the commoners, these gases, due to their full valence shell, are less reactive, and don't easily mix, or react with other elements. This standoffish behavior makes the 'noble' terminology well-suited to these gases.

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Most popular questions from this chapter

Of the 114 -elements known, only two are liquids at room temperature \(\left(25^{\circ} \mathrm{C}\right)\). What are they? (Hint: One element is a familiar metal and the other element is in Group 7A.)

Give an example of each of the following: (a) a monatomic cation, (b) a monatomic anion, (c) a polyatomic cation, (d) a polyatomic anion.

Group the following elements in pairs that you would expect to show similar chemical properties: \(\mathrm{K}, \mathrm{F}, \mathrm{P}, \mathrm{Na}, \mathrm{Cl},\) and \(\mathrm{N}\)

What are allotropes? Give an example. How are allotropes different from isotopes?

Draw two different structural formulas based on the molecular formula \(\mathrm{C}_{2} \mathrm{H}_{6} \mathrm{O}\). Is the fact that you can have more than one compound with the same molecular formula consistent with Dalton's atomic theory?
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