Chapter 3: Problem 15

Does the stair-step boundary line that separates metals from nonmetals in the periodic table cross into the transition-metal portion of the table?

Short Answer

Expert verified

The stair-step boundary line, also known as the 'metalloid line,' separates metals from nonmetals in the periodic table but does not cross into the transition-metal portion of the table. The line starts from the representative/main group elements (Boron) and continues through elements that are not part of the transition metals, which are found in groups 3 to 12.

Step by step solution

Understanding the periodic table

The periodic table is a tabular arrangement of the chemical elements, organized by atomic number, electron configurations, and recurring chemical properties. It is divided into several groupings - representative/main group elements, transition metals, and inner transition metals (including the f-block elements: lanthanides and actinides).

Identifying the stair-step boundary line

The stair-step boundary line, also known as the 'metalloid line,' is an imaginary line on the periodic table that separates metals from nonmetals. It runs diagonally from the left-side of the periodic table (Boron, element 5) towards the right, zigzagging down through elements like Silicon, Germanium, Arsenic, Antimony, Tellurium, and Astatine. The elements immediately to the left of this line are metals, while the ones to the right are nonmetals.

Identifying transition metals

Transition metals are the elements found in the central block of the periodic table, specifically in groups 3 to 12. These metals are characterized by their multiple oxidation states and ability to form complex ions and stable compounds.

Determining if the stair-step boundary line crosses into the transition-metal portion of the table

Now that we know the locations of the stair-step boundary line and transition metals on the periodic table, we can determine whether the boundary line crosses into the transition-metal portion. Carefully examining the periodic table, we can see that the stair-step boundary line does not cross into the transition-metal portion. The stair-step line starts from the representative/main group elements (Boron) and continues through elements that are not part of the transition metals. In conclusion, the stair-step boundary line that separates metals from nonmetals in the periodic table does not cross into the transition-metal portion of the table.

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Does the stair-step boundary line that separates metals from nonmetals in the periodic table cross into the transition-metal portion of the table?

Short Answer

Step by step solution

Understanding the periodic table

Identifying the stair-step boundary line

Identifying transition metals

Determining if the stair-step boundary line crosses into the transition-metal portion of the table

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