Chapter 4: Periodic Table of Elements
Explore the organization of elements in the periodic table, understand periodic trends, and learn about specific groups and periods with comprehensive examples and applications.
Chapter 4: Periodic Table of Elements
Overview
The periodic table is one of the most important tools in chemistry. It organizes all known elements in a systematic way that reveals patterns in their properties and reactivity. This chapter will guide you through the development of the periodic table, the organization of elements in the modern periodic table, and the characteristic properties of important groups and periods. Understanding the periodic table will help you predict chemical behavior and understand why elements behave the way they do.
Learning Objectives
After studying this chapter, you should be able to:
- Explain the historical development of the periodic table
- Understand the organization of the modern periodic table
- Identify and locate different groups and periods
- Analyze periodic trends in atomic properties
- Describe characteristic properties of Group 1, Group 17, and Period 3 elements
- Understand the properties of transition elements
4.1 Development of the Periodic Table
Early Attempts at Classification
Lavoisier's Elements (1789)
Approach: Classified elements as metals, nonmetals, and earths Limitations: Only identified 33 elements, no systematic organization
Dobereiner's Triads (1829)
Concept: Groups of three elements with similar properties Examples:
- (halogens)
- (alkaline earth metals)
- (chalcogens)
Law of Triads: Properties of middle element were average of the other two
Newlands' Law of Octaves (1864)
Concept: Elements arranged by atomic mass showed repeating properties every 8 elements
Comparison: Similar to musical notes repeating every 8 notes Limitations: Worked well for lighter elements but failed for heavier elements
Mendeleev's Periodic Table (1869)
Key Contributions
- Atomic Mass Arrangement: Arranged elements by increasing atomic mass
- Periodic Law: Properties are periodic functions of atomic mass
- Prediction of Elements: Left blank spaces for undiscovered elements
- Prediction of Properties: Predicted properties of missing elements
Achievements
- Gallium (1875): Predicted eka-aluminum - discovered by French chemist
- Scandium (1879): Predicted eka-boron - discovered by Swedish chemist
- Germanium (1886): Predicted eka-silicon - discovered by German chemist
- All predictions were remarkably accurate
Limitations
- Could not explain position of isotopes
- Could not explain properties of transition metals
- Some elements didn't fit in proper positions
Modern Periodic Table (1913 onwards)
Moseley's Contribution (1913)
Key Discovery: X-ray spectroscopy revealed atomic numbers Law: Properties are periodic functions of atomic number, not atomic mass Result: Elements arranged by increasing atomic number
Modern Organization
- Atomic Number: Number of protons in nucleus
- Periods: Horizontal rows (7 periods)
- Groups: Vertical columns (18 groups)
- Blocks: s-block, p-block, d-block, f-block
Did You Know?
Mendeleev was so confident in his predictions that he corrected the atomic masses of certain elements, believing his periodic law was correct. When elements were discovered with properties matching his predictions, his periodic table gained scientific acceptance.
4.2 Arrangement of Elements in the Modern Periodic Table
Structure of the Periodic Table
Periods
Definition: Horizontal rows in the periodic table Number: 7 periods (1-7) Organization: Elements with same number of electron shells
Characteristics:
- Period 1: 2 elements ()
- Periods 2-3: 8 elements each
- Periods 4-5: 18 elements each
- Periods 6-7: 32 elements each
Groups
Definition: Vertical columns in the periodic table Number: 18 groups (1-18) Organization: Elements with similar chemical properties and same number of valence electrons
Group Categories:
- Main Group (Representative) Elements: Groups 1, 2, 13-18
- Transition Elements: Groups 3-12
- Inner Transition Elements: Lanthanides and Actinides
Blocks
s-block: Groups 1-2, Helium (last period)
- Valence electrons:
p-block: Groups 13-18
- Valence electrons:
- Mix of metals, metalloids, and nonmetals
d-block: Groups 3-12
- Valence electrons:
- Transition metals with variable oxidation states
f-block: Lanthanides and Actinides
- Valence electrons:
- Rare earth elements
Periodic Trends
Atomic Radius
Definition: Distance from nucleus to outermost electron
Trends:
- Down a group: Increases (more electron shells)
- Across a period: Decreases (increased nuclear charge, same shells)
| Element | Period | Group | Atomic Radius (pm) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Li | 2 | 1 | 152 |
| Be | 2 | 2 | 112 |
| B | 2 | 13 | 85 |
| C | 2 | 14 | 77 |
| N | 2 | 15 | 75 |
| O | 2 | 16 | 73 |
| F | 2 | 17 | 72 |
| Ne | 2 | 18 | 71 |
Ionization Energy
Definition: Energy required to remove one electron from a gaseous atom
Trends:
- Down a group: Decreases (electrons farther from nucleus)
- Across a period: Increases (increased nuclear charge, same shells)
| Element | Period | Group | 1st Ionization Energy (kJ/mol) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Li | 2 | 1 | 520 |
| Be | 2 | 2 | 899 |
| B | 2 | 13 | 801 |
| C | 2 | 14 | 1086 |
| N | 2 | 15 | 1402 |
| O | 2 | 16 | 1314 |
| F | 2 | 17 | 1681 |
| Ne | 2 | 18 | 2081 |
Electronegativity
Definition: Ability of an atom to attract electrons in a chemical bond
Trends:
- Down a group: Decreases (larger atomic size)
- Across a period: Increases (increased nuclear charge)
| Element | Period | Group | Electronegativity (Pauling) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Li | 2 | 1 | 1.0 |
| Be | 2 | 2 | 1.5 |
| B | 2 | 13 | 2.0 |
| C | 2 | 14 | 2.5 |
| N | 2 | 15 | 3.0 |
| O | 2 | 16 | 3.5 |
| F | 2 | 17 | 4.0 |
| Ne | 2 | 18 | - |
Electron Affinity
Definition: Energy change when an atom gains an electron
Trends:
- Down a group: Generally decreases
- Across a period: Generally increases (with some exceptions)
Key Terms
- Period: Horizontal row in periodic table
- Group: Vertical column in periodic table
- Atomic Radius: Size of atom
- Ionization Energy: Energy to remove electron
- Electronegativity: Ability to attract electrons
SPM Exam Tips
When studying periodic trends:
- Remember the general patterns (radius decreases across period, increases down group)
- Know the exceptions (e.g., Be > B in ionization energy)
- Understand the reasons behind the trends (nuclear charge, electron shielding)
- Practice identifying elements in different blocks
4.3 Elements in Group 18 (Noble Gases)
Characteristics of Noble Gases
Physical Properties
| Element | Atomic Number | Electron Configuration | Boiling Point (°C) | Melting Point (°C) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Helium | 2 | -268.9 | -272.2 | |
| Neon | 10 | -246.1 | -248.6 | |
| Argon | 18 | -185.7 | -189.4 | |
| Krypton | 36 | -153.4 | -157.4 | |
| Xenon | 54 | -108.1 | -111.8 | |
| Radon | 86 | -61.7 | -71 |
Chemical Properties
Common Features:
- Valence Shell: Completely filled ()
- Stability: High stability due to full valence shell
- Reactivity: Very low (inert gases)
- Ionization Energy: Highest in their respective periods
Chemical Behavior
Reactivity Order: He < Ne < Ar < Kr < Xe < Rn
- Helium and Neon: Essentially inert
- Argon: Forms some compounds under extreme conditions
- Krypton: Forms few compounds (e.g., Kr)
- Xenon: Forms several compounds (e.g., Xe, Xe, Xe)
- Radon: Radioactive, forms compounds similar to xenon
Noble Gas Compounds
| Compound | Formula | Formation Conditions | Properties |
|---|---|---|---|
| Xenon difluoride | Xe | High temperature, UV light | Colorless crystalline solid |
| Xenon tetrafluoride | Xe | High pressure, excess | White crystalline solid |
| Xenon hexafluoride | Xe | High pressure, excess | Colorless crystals |
| Xenon trioxide | Xe | Hydrolysis of Xe | Yellow explosive solid |
Occurrence and Uses
| Element | Occurrence | Uses |
|---|---|---|
| Helium | Natural gas deposits | Balloons, cryogenics, welding |
| Neon | Atmospheric trace | Lighting signs, lasers |
| Argon | Atmospheric (0.93%) | Welding, lighting, inert atmosphere |
| Krypton | Atmospheric trace | High-intensity lamps, lasers |
| Xenon | Atmospheric trace | High-intensity lamps, medical imaging |
| Radon | Radioactive decay | Cancer treatment research |
Importance of Noble Gases
Industrial Applications
- Inert Atmospheres: Prevent unwanted reactions
- Lighting: Neon signs, fluorescent lamps
- Cryogenics: Liquid helium for superconductivity
- Medical: Xenon for anesthesia, imaging
Scientific Research
- Cryogenics: Superconductivity research
- Plasma Physics: Noble gas plasmas
- Chemical Bonding: Studying extreme compounds
Key Terms
- Noble Gases: Group 18 elements with filled valence shells
- Inert Gases: Elements with very low reactivity
- Full Valence Shell: Complete outer electron configuration
- Ionization Energy: Energy required to remove electron
Did You Know?
Helium is the only element that cannot be solidified at normal atmospheric pressure, no matter how low the temperature. It requires pressures greater than 25 atmospheres to become solid, making it unique among all elements.
4.4 Elements in Group 1 (Alkali Metals)
Characteristics of Alkali Metals
Physical Properties
| Element | Atomic Number | Electron Configuration | Density (g/c) | Melting Point (°C) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lithium | 3 | [He]2 | 0.534 | 180.5 |
| Sodium | 11 | [Ne]3 | 0.968 | 97.8 |
| Potassium | 19 | [Ar]4 | 0.856 | 63.5 |
| Rubidium | 37 | [Kr]5 | 1.532 | 39.3 |
| Cesium | 55 | [Xe]6 | 1.873 | 28.4 |
| Francium | 87 | [Rn]7 | 1.870 | ~27 |
Chemical Properties
Common Features:
- Valence Shell: n configuration
- Reactivity: Extremely high (most reactive metals)
- Ion Formation: Lose 1 electron to form M⁺ ions
- Electronegativity: Lowest in their respective periods
- Ionization Energy: Lowest in their respective periods
Reactivity Trend
Order of Reactivity: Li < Na < K < Rb < Cs < Fr
- Down the group: Reactivity increases
- Reason: Decreasing ionization energy, increasing atomic size
Chemical Reactions
-
Reaction with Oxygen
-
Reaction with Water
- Lithium: Gentle reaction
- Sodium: Vigorous reaction
- Potassium: Very vigorous reaction
- Rubidium/Cesium: Explosive reaction
-
Reaction with Halogens
Occurrence and Uses
| Element | Occurrence | Uses |
|---|---|---|
| Lithium | Minerals (spodumene) | Batteries, ceramics, medicine |
| Sodium | Salt deposits (NaCl) | Sodium vapor lamps, NaOH production |
| Potassium | Minerals (sylvite) | Fertilizers, soaps, glass |
| Rubidium | Trace minerals | Atomic clocks, electronics |
| Cesium | Trace minerals | Atomic clocks, photoelectric cells |
| Francium | Radioactive decay | Research only |
Safety Precautions
Hazards
- Fire Hazard: React violently with water
- Storage: Stored under oil to prevent reaction with air/moisture
- Handling: Use dry inert atmosphere, avoid contact with water
Emergency Procedures
- Fire: Use Class D fire extinguishers (DO NOT USE WATER)
- Spills: Cover with dry sand, evacuate area
- Contact: Wash with copious water for skin contact
SPM Exam Tips
For Group 1 elements:
- Know the reactivity trend and reasons (increasing atomic size, decreasing IE)
- Understand different oxide formation (normal, peroxide, superoxide)
- Memorize the reaction with water and observations
- Remember storage requirements (under oil)
4.5 Elements in Group 17 (Halogens)
Characteristics of Halogens
Physical Properties
| Element | Atomic Number | Electron Configuration | State at STP | Color |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fluorine | 9 | [He]22 | Gas | Pale yellow |
| Chlorine | 17 | [Ne]33 | Gas | Greenish-yellow |
| Bromine | 35 | [Ar]43⁰4 | Liquid | Reddish-brown |
| Iodine | 53 | [Kr]54⁰5 | Solid | Gray-black |
| Astatine | 85 | [Xe]64⁴5⁰6 | Solid | Black (radioactive) |
Chemical Properties
Common Features:
- Valence Shell: nn configuration
- Reactivity: High nonmetals
- Ion Formation: Gain 1 electron to form X⁻ ions
- Electronegativity: Highest in their respective periods
- Electron Affinity: High (tendency to gain electrons)
Reactivity Trend
Order of Reactivity: F > Cl > Br > I > At
- Down the group: Reactivity decreases
- Reason: Decreasing electron affinity, increasing atomic size
Chemical Reactions
-
Reaction with Metals
-
Reaction with Hydrogen
- Reactivity: > C > B >
-
Displacement Reactions
Occurrence and Uses
| Element | Occurrence | Uses |
|---|---|---|
| Fluorine | Minerals (fluorite) | Teflon, toothpaste, uranium enrichment |
| Chlorine | Salt deposits (NaCl) | Bleach, disinfectant, PVC production |
| Bromine | Seawater, salt lakes | Flame retardants, pharmaceuticals |
| Iodine | Seaweed, caliche | Disinfectants, medicine, photography |
| Astatine | Trace amounts | Research only |
Halogen Compounds
Hydrogen Halides
| Compound | Formula | Properties | Uses |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hydrogen fluoride | HF | Colorless gas, acidic | Etching glass, refrigerant |
| Hydrogen chloride | HCl | Colorless gas, acidic | Cleaning, chemical synthesis |
| Hydrogen bromide | HBr | Colorless gas, acidic | Organic synthesis |
| Hydrogen iodide | HI | Colorless gas, acidic | Research |
Important Applications
- Disinfection: Chlorine and iodine for water treatment
- Pharmaceuticals: Fluoride in toothpaste, iodine in antiseptics
- Industrial: Bromine in flame retardants, chlorine in PVC
- Research: Fluorine compounds in Teflon, pharmaceuticals
Key Terms
- Halogens: Group 17 elements (F, Cl, Br, I, At)
- Electron Affinity: Energy change when gaining electron
- Oxidizing Agents: Substances that accept electrons
- Displacement Reactions: More reactive element displaces less reactive one
Did You Know?
Fluorine is the most electronegative element, meaning it has the greatest ability to attract electrons in a chemical bond. This property makes it extremely reactive and why it's never found as a free element in nature.
4.6 Elements in Period 3
Overview of Period 3 Elements
| Element | Symbol | Atomic Number | Group | Block | Electron Configuration |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sodium | Na | 11 | 1 | s-block | [Ne]3 |
| Magnesium | Mg | 12 | 2 | s-block | [Ne]3 |
| Aluminum | Al | 13 | 13 | p-block | [Ne]33 |
| Silicon | Si | 14 | 14 | p-block | [Ne]33 |
| Phosphorus | P | 15 | 15 | p-block | [Ne]33 |
| Sulfur | S | 16 | 16 | p-block | [Ne]33 |
| Chlorine | Cl | 17 | 17 | p-block | [Ne]33 |
| Argon | Ar | 18 | 18 | p-block | [Ne]33 |
s-Block Elements (Na, Mg)
Sodium (Na)
- Properties: Soft, silvery metal, highly reactive
- Reactions: Violent with water, forms Na⁺ ions
- Uses: Sodium vapor lamps, NaOH production
- Compounds: NaCl (table salt), NC (soda ash)
Magnesium (Mg)
- Properties: Light, strong metal, less reactive than Na
- Reactions: Reacts with steam, forms M⁺ ions
- Uses: Alloys, flares, reducing agent
- Compounds: MgO (refractory), Mg(OH)₂ (antacid)
p-Block Elements (Al to Ar)
Aluminum (Al)
- Properties: Lightweight, good conductor, amphoteric
- Reactions: Forms protective oxide layer
- Uses: Aircraft, beverage cans, electrical wiring
- Compounds: (alumina),
Silicon (Si)
- Properties: Metalloid, semiconductor
- Structure: Giant covalent structure
- Uses: Computer chips, solar cells, glass
- Compounds: (sand/quartz), (carborundum)
Phosphorus (P)
- Allotropes: White (reactive), red (stable), black (semiconductor)
- Reactions: White P ignites in air
- Uses: Fertilizers, matches, detergents
- Compounds: , (phosphoric acid)
Sulfur (S)
- Allotropes: (ring structure)
- Properties: Yellow solid, brittle
- Uses: Vulcanization of rubber, sulfuric acid
- Compounds: , ,
Chlorine (Cl)
- Properties: Greenish-yellow gas, strong oxidizing agent
- Reactions: Forms with hydrogen
- Uses: Disinfection, bleach, PVC production
- Compounds: , , (bleaching powder)
Argon (Ar)
- Properties: Colorless, odorless, inert gas
- Uses: Inert atmosphere, welding, lighting
- Compounds: Essentially none (noble gas)
Periodic Trends in Period 3
| Property | Na | Mg | Al | Si | P | S | Cl | Ar |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Atomic radius | Largest | Large | Medium | Small | Small | Small | Smallest | Smallest |
| Ionization energy | Low | Medium | Medium | High | High | High | Highest | Highest |
| Electronegativity | Very low | Low | Medium | Medium | Medium | Medium | High | Very high |
| Metallic character | Strong | Strong | Strong | Weak | Nonmetallic | Nonmetallic | Nonmetallic | Nonmetallic |
| Oxide character | Basic | Basic | Amphoteric | Acidic | Acidic | Acidic | Acidic | None |
Oxide Properties
| Element | Oxide | Nature | pH of Solution |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sodium | Basic | High pH (alkaline) | |
| Magnesium | Basic | High pH (alkaline) | |
| Aluminum | Amphoteric | Neutral (can act as acid or base) | |
| Silicon | Acidic | Low pH (neutral in water) | |
| Phosphorus | Acidic | Low pH (acidic) | |
| Sulfur | Acidic | Low pH (acidic) | |
| Chlorine | Acidic | Very low pH (strong acid) |
SPM Exam Tips
For Period 3 elements:
- Understand the transition from metallic to nonmetallic character
- Memorize oxide properties and their pH
- Know the physical states and key properties
- Practice writing reactions for each element
4.7 Transition Elements
Characteristics of Transition Elements
Definition
Transition Elements: Elements in Groups 3-12 with incomplete d subshells in their ground state or common oxidation states.
General Properties
| Property | Description | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Variable Oxidation States | Multiple stable oxidation states | Fe: +2, +3 |
| Colored Compounds | Most compounds are colored | C⁺: blue, F⁺: green |
| Catalytic Activity | Many act as catalysts | Fe in Haber process |
| High Melting/Boiling Points | Strong metallic bonding | W: 3422°C |
| High Density | Close-packed structures | Os: 22.59 g/c |
| Paramagnetism | Unpaired electrons attract magnetic field | Fe, Ni, Co |
First Row Transition Elements
| Element | Symbol | Atomic Number | Common Oxidation States | Color of Ion |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Scandium | Sc | 21 | +3 | Colorless |
| Titanium | Ti | 22 | +2, +3, +4 | Purple (T⁺), Yellow (T⁺) |
| Vanadium | V | 23 | +2, +3, +4, +5 | Violet (⁺), Green (⁺) |
| Chromium | Cr | 24 | +2, +3, +6 | Blue (C⁺), Green (C⁺) |
| Manganese | Mn | 25 | +2, +3, +4, +6, +7 | Pink (M⁺), Purple (Mn⁻) |
| Iron | Fe | 26 | +2, +3 | Green (F⁺), Yellow (F⁺) |
| Cobalt | Co | 27 | +2, +3 | Pink (C⁺), Blue (C⁺) |
| Nickel | Ni | 28 | +2, +3 | Green (N⁺) |
| Copper | Cu | 29 | +1, +2 | Blue (C⁺) |
| Zinc | Zn | 30 | +2 | Colorless |
Important Transition Elements
Iron (Fe)
Properties:
- Most common transition metal
- Excellent electrical and thermal conductivity
- Forms magnetic compounds
- Corrodes easily in moist air
Compounds:
- : Iron(II) oxide - basic
- : Iron(III) oxide - basic
- : Iron(II) chloride - green
- : Iron(III) chloride - brown
- : Green vitriol - light green crystals
Uses:
- Steel production (alloy with carbon)
- Hemoglobin in blood
- Magnets
- Catalyst in Haber process
Copper (Cu)
Properties:
- Excellent conductor of electricity and heat
- Resistant to corrosion
- Reddish-brown metal
- Low reactivity
Compounds:
- : Copper(II) oxide - black
- : Copper(I) oxide - red
- : Blue vitriol - blue crystals
- : Copper(II) hydroxide - blue gelatinous precipitate
Uses:
- Electrical wiring
- Plumbing
- Coinage
- Catalysis
- Antimicrobial applications
Zinc (Zn)
Properties:
- Bluish-white metal
- Low melting point
- Galvanization protection for iron
Compounds:
- : Zinc oxide - white, used in creams and paints
- : Zinc sulfide - used in phosphors
- : Smithsonite - zinc ore
Uses:
- Galvanizing steel
- Batteries (Zn-C, Zn-Ag)
- Alloys (brass, bronze)
- Die-casting
Catalytic Properties
Industrial Catalysts
| Catalyst | Reaction | Uses |
|---|---|---|
| Iron () | Haber process (ammonia) | |
| Vanadium(V) oxide | Contact process (sulfuric acid) | |
| Platinum () | Ostwald process (nitric acid) | |
| Nickel () | C=C + C-C | Hydrogenation of oils |
| Manganese(IV) oxide | Laboratory oxygen preparation |
Biological Catalysts
Many transition metals are essential in biological systems:
- Iron: Hemoglobin (oxygen transport)
- Copper: Enzymes involved in respiration
- Zinc: Carbonic anhydrase (C transport)
- Magnesium: Chlorophyll (photosynthesis)
Key Terms
- Transition Elements: Elements with incomplete d subshells
- Variable Oxidation States: Multiple possible charge states
- Catalyst: Substance that increases reaction rate
- Paramagnetism: Attraction to magnetic fields
SPM Exam Tips
For transition elements:
- Remember the common oxidation states for each element
- Know the characteristic colors of their compounds
- Understand catalytic applications in industry
- Practice identifying which elements are transition metals
Summary
This chapter has explored the periodic table and its organization:
- Historical Development: From Dobereiner to Mendeleev to modern table
- Modern Organization: Periods, groups, blocks, and their significance
- Periodic Trends: Atomic radius, ionization energy, electronegativity
- Group 18: Noble gases with filled valence shells
- Group 1: Alkali metals with high reactivity
- Group 17: Halogens with high electronegativity
- Period 3: Transition from metallic to nonmetallic character
- Transition Elements: Variable oxidation states and catalytic properties
Understanding the periodic table is essential for predicting chemical behavior and explaining why elements have specific properties.
Practice Tips for SPM Students
- Create a periodic table trend summary chart
- Practice identifying elements in different groups and periods
- Work through periodic trend calculations
- Memorize key properties of important groups
- Review laboratory applications of transition metals