STUDENT SPACE · TOPIC 5

Patterns in the Periodic Table

Connect electronic configuration with group, period and general properties.

The essentials

Elements are arranged in increasing proton number. Groups are columns and periods are rows.
For neutral atoms in Groups I–VII, outer electrons give the group; occupied shells give the period.
Group VIII noble gases have full outer shells. Use the neutral atom, not an ion, to locate an element.

Try each question before opening its hint or answer. Use paper for calculations and diagrams.

A neutral atom has electronic configuration 2,6. State its group and period.

Need a hint for Question 1?

Count outer electrons and occupied shells separately.

Check Question 1

Group VI, Period 2: six outer electrons and two occupied shells.

A neutral atom has configuration 2,8,8,1. State its group, period and the charge of the ion formed by losing its outer electron.

Need a hint for Question 2?

Count occupied shells and outer electrons separately.

Check Question 2

Group I, Period 4. Losing its single outer electron gives a 1+ ion.

Give two properties that make copper suitable for electrical wires. Name a non-metal that conducts electricity.

Need a hint for Question 3?

One property helps current flow; the other allows a wire to be drawn.

Check Question 3

Good electrical conductivity and ductility. Graphite is a non-metal that conducts electricity.

Use the matching chapter worksheet. Attempt independently, compare your reasoning with your partner, then bring unresolved questions to your teacher.

Change the number of neutrons and compare isotope mixtures.