Chapter 1

Periodic Table, Periodic Properties and Variations of Properties

Class 10 - Concise Chemistry Selina
Intext Questions 1

Question 1(i)

State modern periodic law.

Answer

The Modern Periodic Law is stated as, "the physical and chemical properties of elements are
the periodic functions of their atomic number."

Question 1(ii)

Name the scientist who stated the law.

Answer

Henry Moseley.

Question 1(iii)

How many groups and periods does modern periodic table have?

Answer

Groups - 18

Period - 07

Question 2

What are horizontal rows and vertical columns in a periodic table known as?

Answer

Horizontal rows are known as Periods,

Vertical columns are known as Groups.

Question 3

Periodicity is observed due to similar .......... (number of valence electrons/atomic

number/electronic configuration)

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Answer

Periodicity is observed due to similar electronic configuration.

Question 4

How does the electronic configuration in atoms change

(i) in a period from left to right?

(ii) in a group from top to bottom?

Answer

(i) As we move across a period the number of shells remain same & number of valence
electron increases by one.

(ii) As we go from top to bottom in a group the number of shells increases one by one but the
number of electron remain the same.

Question 5

Name two elements in each case :

(i) Alkali metals

(ii) Alkaline earth metals

(iii) Halogens

(iv) Inert Gas

Answer

(i) Lithium (Li) and Sodium (Na).

(ii) Beryllium (Be) and Magnesium (Mg).

(iii) Fluorine (F) and Chlorine (Cl).

(iv) Helium (He) and Neon (Ne).

Question 6

Elements of group 1 and elements of group 17 both have valency 1. Explain.

Answer

Valency is equal to the number of electrons an atom can donate or accept or share. Hence, it
depends on the number of electrons in the outermost shell (i.e. valence shell).

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Group 1 (IA) elements have one electron in their outermost shell. So they donate this one
electron to become stable hence their valency is one. On the other hand, Group 17 (VIIA)
elements have seven electrons in their outermost shell. So they accept one electron to attain
stable electronic configuration hence their valency is also one.

Question 7

Correct the statements.

(i) Elements in the same period have the same valency.

(ii) Valency depends upon the number of shells in an atom.

(iii) Copper and zinc are representative elements.

(iv) Transition elements are placed at extreme right of the periodic table.

Answer

(i) Elements in the same group have the same valency.

(ii) Valency depends upon the number of valence electrons in an atom.

(iii) Copper and Zinc are transition elements.

(iv) Noble gases are placed at the extreme right of the periodic table.

Question 8

What do you understand by ?

(i) Periodicity

(ii) Typical elements

(iii) Orbits

Answer

(i) The properties that reappear at regular intervals, or in which there is gradual variation (i.e.
increase or decrease) at regular intervals, are called 'periodic properties' and the phenomenon
is known as the periodicity of elements.

(ii) The third period elements are typical elements. They are Sodium (Na), Magnesium (Mg),
Aluminium (Al), Silicon (Si), Phosphorus (P), Sulphur (S), Chlorine (Cl) .

(iii) Electrons revolve around the nucleus in certain definite circular paths called orbits.

Question 9

Name two elements that you would expect to show chemical reactions similar to calcium.
What is the basis of your choice ?

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Answer

Beryllium and Magnesium will show the similar chemical reactions as calcium. Since these
elements belong to the same group 2 and also have same number of valence electrons as
calcium.

Question 10

Name the (i) metals (ii) metalloids and (iii) non-metals in the first twenty elements.

Answer

1. Metals — Lithium (Li), Beryllium (Be), Sodium (Na), Magnesium (Mg), Aluminium
(Al), Potassium (K), Calcium (Ca).
2. Metalloids — Boron (B), Silicon (Si).
3. Non-Metals — Hydrogen (H), Helium (He), Carbon (C), Nitrogen (N), Oxygen (O),
Fluorine (F), Neon (Ne), Phosphorus (P), Sulphur (S), Chlorine (Cl), Argon (Ar).

Question 11

Fluorine, Chlorine and Bromine are put in one group on the basis of their similar properties.

(i) What are those similar properties ?

(ii) What is the common name of this group or family ?

Answer

(i) Similar properties of Fluorine, Chlorine and Bromine are:

1. They have same number of valence electrons (7).

2. They have non-metallic character.
3. They all try to gain one electron to obtain stable electronic configuration.
4. They all have same valency, which is equal to 1.

(ii) Halogens is the common name of this group elements.

Question 12

What is the main characteristic of the last element in each period of the Periodic Table? What
is the general name of such elements?

Answer

Main characteristics of the last element in each period of the Periodic Table are:

1. They have valency equal to zero.

2. They react under very special condition otherwise they don't react.
3. They have stable gas electronic configuration.

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General name of such elements is Inert Gases.

Question 13

According to atomic structure, what determines which element will be the first and which
will be the last in a period.

Answer

Number of valence electrons determines which element will be the first and which element
will be the last in a period.

Question 14

How does the number of : (i) valence electrons and (ii) valency vary on moving from left to
right in the third period of the periodic table ?

Answer

(i) The number of valence electron successively increases by one as we move from left to
right in the third period.

(ii) Valency firstly increase from 1 to 4 from element sodium (Na) to silicon (Si) and then
reduces to zero from element phosphorus (P) till chlorine (Cl) as we move from left to right
in the third period.

Question 15

Name the type of elements, which have their

(i) outermost shell complete

(ii) outermost shell incomplete

(iii) two outermost shell incomplete

(iv) one electron short of octet

(v) two electrons in the outermost orbit.

Answer

(i) Inert Gas or Noble Gas Elements.

(ii) Representative Element.

(iii) Transition Element.

(iv) Halogens.

(v) Alkaline Earth Metals.

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Question 16

An element has 2 electrons in its N shell.

(i) What is its atomic number ?

(ii) State its position in periodic table

(iii) Is it a metal or a non-metal ?

(iv) State the name assigned to this group.

(v) What is the valency of this element ?

Answer

(i) Atomic Number is 20.

(ii) It belongs to group 2 and fourth period.

(iii) It is a metal.

(iv) The name assigned to this group is IIA.

(v) Valency is 2.

Question 17

Answer the following in respect of element 1632S1632S.

(i) Give its electronic configuration.

(ii) To which group and period does it belong ?

(iii) What is its valency ?

(iv) Is it a metal or a non-metal ?

(v) Is it a reducing agent or an oxidising agent ?

(vi) Give its formula with hydrogen.

Answer

Electronic configuration of S is : 2, 8, 6

(ii) 16th group and 3rd period.

(iii) Valency of S = 8-6 = 2.

(iv) Non-metal.

(v) It is an oxidising agent.

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(vi) Formula with Hydrogen = H2S

Question 18

Name

(a) An alkali metal in period 3 and halogen in period 2.

(b) The noble gas with 3 shells.

(c) The non-metals present in period 2 and metals in period 3.

(d) The element of period 3 with valency 4.

(e) The element in period 3 which does not form oxide.

(f) The element of lower nuclear charge out of Be and Mg.

Answer

(a) Alkali metal in period 3 = Sodium

Halogen in period 2 = Fluorine

(b) Argon (Ar).

(c) Carbon (C), Nitrogen (N), Oxygen (O), Fluorine (F), Neon (Ne) are non-metals in period
2.

Sodium (Na), Magnesium (Mg) and Aluminium (Al)are metals in period 3.

(d) Silicon (Si).

(e) Argon (Ar).

(f) Be will have lower nuclear charge then Mg.

Question 19

The electronic configuration of the element T is 2, 8, 8, 1.

(i) What is the group number of T ?

(ii) What is the period number of T ?

(iii) How many valence electrons are there in an atom of T ?

(iv) What is the valency of T ?

(v) Is it a metal or a non-metal ?

Answer

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(i) Group Number of T is 1.

(ii) Period of T is 4.

(iii) Their is 1 valence electron present in atom T.

(iv) Valency of T is 1.

(v) It is a Metal.

Question 20

Match the atomic number 19, 15, 8, 4, and 2 with each of the following :

(i) A metal of valency one.

(ii) A solid non-metal of period 3.

(iii) A rare gas.

(iv) A gaseous element with valency 2.

(v) An element of group 2.

Answer

(i) A metal of valency one — Atomic number 19 (Potassium).

(ii) A solid non-metal of period 3 — Atomic number 15 (Phosphorus).

(iii) A rare gas — Atomic number 2 (Helium).

(iv) A gaseous element with valency 2 — Atomic number 8 (Oxygen).

(v) An element of group 2 — Atomic number 4 (Beryllium).

Intext Questions 2

Question 1

What do you understand by atomic size ? State its unit.

Answer

Atomic Size is the distance between the centre of the nucleus of an atom and its outermost
shell.

Unit — Angstrom (Å) and Picometer (pm).

Question 2

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Give the trends in atomic size on moving :

(i) Down the group,

(ii) Across the period left to right.

Answer

(i) On moving down the group the atomic size increases as the number of valence shell
increases.

(ii) On moving across the period the size of an atom decreases from left to right. This is
because the nuclear charge, i.e., the atomic number increases from left to right in the same
period, thereby bringing the outermost shell closer to the nucleus.

Question 3

Arrange the elements of second and third period in increasing order of their atomic size
(excluding noble gases).

Answer

Second Period — F < O < N < C < B < Be < Li.

Third Period — Cl < S < P < Si < Al < Mg < Na.

Question 4

Why is the size of (i) neon greater than fluorine ? (ii) sodium is greater than magnesium ?

Answer

(i) The size of neon is bigger compared to fluorine because the outer shell of neon have a
complete octet. They have maximum number of electrons in their outermost orbit thus the
electronic repulsions are maximum. So, the effect of nuclear pull over the valence shell
electrons is not observed. Hence, the size of neon is greater then fluorine.

(ii) Magnesium is placed to the right of Sodium in period 3. As the atomic size decreases on
moving from left to right across the period, hence, atomic size of Sodium is greater than
Magnesium.

Question 5(i)

Which is greater in size ?

(a) An atom or a cation

(b) An atom or an anion

(c) Fe2+ or Fe3+

Answer

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(a) An atom.

Reason — An atom is greater in size than a cation because cation is formed by the loss of
electron(s), hence proton(s) are more than electron(s) in a cation. So electrons are strongly
attracted by the nucleus and are pulled inward. Hence, the size decreases.

(b) An anion.

Reason — An anion is greater in size than atom because anion is formed by the gain of
electron(s). Thus, the number of electron(s) are more than proton(s). The effective positive
charge in the nucleus is less, so less inward pull is experienced. Hence, the size increases.

(c) Fe2+.

Reason — Fe2+ is greater in size than Fe3+ because Fe2+ has one more electron than Fe3+. So,
nuclear pull is more in Fe3+ than Fe2+, thereby bringing the outermost shell closer to the
nucleus. Hence, size decreases.

Question 5(ii)

Which has higher E.A., Fluorine or Neon.

Answer

Fluorine has higher electron affinity (E.A.) than Neon because Neon being an inert gas has
zero electron affinity or positive values, due to their stable electronic configuration they find
it difficult to accept electrons but Fluorine easily accepts an electron to gain stable gas
electronic configuration.

Question 5(iii)

Which has maximum metallic character Na, Li or K.

Answer

Potassium (K) has the maximum metallic character as potassium belongs to the group 4
whereas sodium belongs to group 3 & lithium belongs to group 2, On moving down the
group the metallic character increases. So, among Sodium (Na), Lithium (Li), and Potassium
(K), Potassium (K) has the maximum metallic character.

Question 6

Arrange :

(i) Be, Li, C, B, N, O, F (in increasing metallic character).

(ii) Si, Na, Al, Mg, Cl, P, S (in decreasing non-metallic character).

Answer

(i) F < O < N < C < B < Be < Li .

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(ii) Cl > S > P > Si > Al > Mg > Na.

Question 7

State the trend in chemical reactivity :

(i) Across the period left to right,

(ii) Down the group.

Answer

(i) On moving from left to right in a period the chemical reactivity of elements first decreases
and then increases.

(ii) Chemical reactivity in metals increases on going down the group, but in non-metals
decreases on going down the group.

Question 8

A metal M forms an oxide having the formula M2O3. It belongs to third period. Write the
atomic number and valency of the metal.

Answer

The metal is Aluminium. Its

Atomic Number = 13,
Valency = 3.

Valency of O is 2 so valency of M is 3. Therefore, M belongs to 13th group. It is given that M

belongs to 3rd period, hence, it has atomic number 13.

Question 9

An element X belongs to 3rd period and 17th group, state

(i) No. of valence electrons in it.

(ii) Name of the element.

(iii) Name the family to which it belongs.

(iv) Write the formula of the compound formed when X reacts with 1327Y1327Y.

Answer

(i) 7.

(ii) Chlorine (Cl).

(iii) Halogens Family.

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(iv) XY3 [AlCl3 (Aluminium Chloride)].

Question 10

The given table shows elements with same number of electrons in its valence shell.

Elements A B C

m.p. 63.0 180.0 97.0

State :

(i) Whether these elements belong to same group or period.

(ii) Arrange them in order of increasing metallic character.

Answer

(i) They belong to the same group as they have same number of electrons in their valence
shell.

(ii) As m.p. decrease on going down the group, and metallic character increases on going
down the group. Therefore,

B < C < A.

Question 11

Which one of the following has the largest atomic radius ?

1. Sodium
2. Potassium
3. Magnesium
4. Aluminium

Answer

Potassium.

Reason — Sodium (Na), Magnesium (Mg) and Aluminium (Al) belong to period 3 whereas
Potassium (K) belongs to period 4. As atomic size increases on moving down the group
hence, Potassium has the largest atomic radius of the given elements.

Question 12

Which one has the largest size?

1. Br
2. I

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 3. I-
4. Cl

Answer

I-
Reason — Cl, Br and I belong to the same group (group 17) and between the three, I is the
bottom most. As atomic size increases down the group hence, between Cl, Br and I, I has the
largest atomic size. Between I and I-, atomic size of I- is larger as anion is larger than the
parent atom. Hence, I- has the largest atomic size in the given elements.

Question 13

The metals of group 2 from top to bottom are Be, Mg, Ca, Sr, and Ba

(i) Which one of these elements will form ions most readily and why ?

(ii) State the common feature in their electronic configuration.

Answer

(i) Barium forms ions more readily due to large atomic size and low ionisation energy.
Among the given elements Barium has the largest atomic size because as we move down the
group atomic size increases. With increase in atomic size, the ionisation energy decreases.

(ii) The common feature in their electronic configuration are:

1. There are two electrons in their valence shell.

2. They lose two electrons to gain stable gas electronic configuration.

Question 14

Write the number of protons, neutrons and electronic configuration of 1939K1939

K , 1531P1531P . Also state their position in the periodic table.
Answer

For 1939K1939K:

No. of Protons = 19

No. of Neutrons = 39 - 19 = 20

Electronic Configuration = 2, 8, 8, 1

Position in periodic table = 4th period (as it has 4 shells) & 1st group (as it has one valence
electron).

For 1531P1531P:

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No. of Protons = 15

No. of Neutrons = 31 - 15 = 16

Electronic Configuration = 2, 8, 5

Position in periodic table = 3rd period (as it has 3 shells) & 15th group (as it has five valence
electrons).

Question 15

Name the element which has :

(i) Two shells, both of which are completely filled with electrons ?

(ii) The electronic configuration 2, 8, 3 ?

(iii) A total of three shells with five electrons in its valence shell ?

(iv) A total of four shells with two electrons in its valence shell ?

(v) Twice as many electrons in its second shell as in its first shell ?

Answer

(i) Neon (Ne)

(ii) Aluminium (Al)

(iii) Phosphorus (P)

(iv) Calcium (Ca)

(v) Carbon (C)

Question 16

An element Barium has atomic number 56. Look up its position in the Periodic Table and
answer the following questions.

(i) Is it a metal or a non-metal ?

(ii) Is it more or less reactive than calcium ?

(iii) What is its valency ?

(iv) What will be the formula of its phosphate ?

(v) Is it larger or smaller than caesium (Cs) in size ?

Answer

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(i) Metal.

(ii) Barium is more reactive than calcium.

(iii) Valency = 2.

(iv) Barium Phosphate Ba3(PO4)2.

(v) Barium is smaller in size then Caesium.

Question 17

In group I of the Periodic Table, three elements X, Y and Z have ionic radii 1.33 Å, 0.95 Å
and 0.60 Å respectively. Giving a reason, arrange them in the order of increasing atomic
numbers in the group.

Answer

Z < Y < X.

Atomic size increases as we move down the group and also the atomic no. increases on
moving down the group.

Question 18

Explain why are the following statements not correct:

(i) All groups contain metals and non-metals.

(ii) Atoms of elements in the same group have the same number of electron(s).

(iii) Non-metallic character decreases across a period with increase in atomic number.

(iv) Reactivity increases with atomic number in a group as well as in a period.

Answer

(i) Incorrect — A few groups contain metalloids and inert gases also.

(ii) Incorrect — as we move down the group the number of electrons increases.

(iii) Incorrect — Non-metallic character increases across a period with increase in atomic
number.

(iv) Incorrect — Chemical reactivity in metals increases on going down the group, but in
non-metals decreases on going down the group.

Question 19(i)

State the number of elements in Period 1, Period 2, and Period 3 of the periodic table. Name
them.

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Answer

No. of elements in:

Period 1 = 2

Hydrogen (H) , Helium (He).

Period 2 = 8

Lithium (Li), Beryllium (Be), Boron (B), Carbon (C), Nitrogen (N), Oxygen (O), Fluorine
(F), Neon(Ne).

Period 3 = 8

Sodium (Na), Magnesium (Mg), Aluminium (Al), Silicon (Si), Phosphorus (P), Sulphur (S),
Chlorine (Cl), Argon (Ar).

Question 19(ii)

What is the common feature of the electronic configuration of the elements at the end of
Period 2 and Period 3 ?

Answer

Common feature of the electronic configuration of the elements at the end of Period 2 and
Period 3 are:

1. They have complete octet (8 electrons in valence shell).

2. They are stable so they don't react.

Question 19(iii)

If an element is in Group 17, it is likely to be ............... [metallic/non-metallic] in character,

while with one electron in its outermost energy level (shell), then it is likely to be ...............
[metallic/non-metallic].

Answer

Non-metallic , metallic.

Question 19(iv)

In Period 3, the most metallic element is ............... (sodium/magnesium/aluminium).

Answer

Sodium (Na).

Question 20

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Complete the following sentences choosing the correct word or words from those given in
brackets at the end of each sentence:

(i) The properties of the elements are a periodic function of their ............... (atomic number,
mass number, relative atomic mass).

(ii) Moving across a ............... of the Periodic Table the elements show increasing ...............
character (group, period, metallic, non-metallic).

(iii) The elements at the bottom of a group would be expected to show ............... metallic
character than the element at the top (less, more).

(iv) The similarities in the properties of a group of elements are because they have the
same ............... (electronic configuration, number of outer electrons, atomic numbers)

Answer

(i) Atomic Number.

(ii) Period, Non-metallic.

(iii) More.

(iv) Number of outer electrons.

Question 21

Give reasons for the following:

(i) The size of a Cl- ion is greater than the size of a Cl atom.

(ii) Argon atom is bigger than chlorine atom.

(iii) Ionisation potential of the element increases across a period.

(iv) Inert gases do not form ion.

Answer

(i) Cl- has one more electron then Cl atom. Anion is formed by the gain of electron(s). Thus,
the number of electron(s) are more than proton(s). The effective positive charge in the
nucleus is less, so less inward pull is experienced. Hence, the size increases.

(ii) Argon is an inert gas and its outermost shell is complete. They have maximum number of
electrons in their outermost orbit. Thus, the electronic repulsions are maximum. The effect of
nuclear pull over the valence electrons is not seen. Hence, the size of the argon is greater then
chlorine.

(iii) Ionisation potential of the element increases across a period as we move from left to
right, the atomic size decreases due to an increase in the nuclear charge and thus more energy
is required to remove the electron(s), hence, Ionisation potential increases.

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(iv) Inert gases do not form ion due to their stable electronic configuration, inert gases find it
difficult to accept or lose electrons hence they do not form ion.

Intext Questions 3

Question 1(a)

Define the term 'ionisation potential'.

Answer

The energy required to remove an electron from a neutral isolated gaseous atom and convert
it into a positively charged gaseous ion is called Ionisation Potential (I.P.) or Ionisation
Energy (I.E.).

Question 1(b)

Represent it in the form of an equation. In which unit it is measured ?

Answer

M (g) + I.E. ⟶ M+ (g) + e-

where, M is any element

Unit : electronvolts per atom (eV/atom)

SI Unit : kilojoule per mole (kJ/mole).

Question 2

Ionisation Potential values depends on (a) atomic size (b) nuclear pull. Explain.

Answer

(a) The greater the atomic size the lesser the force of attraction. Since the electrons of the
outermost shell lie further away from the nucleus, it makes their removal easier. Thus,
Ionisation Potential decreases with increase in atomic size.

(b) The greater the nuclear charge, greater is the attraction for the electrons of the outermost
shell. Therefore, the electrons in the outermost shell are more firmly held because of which
greater energy is required to remove the electron(s). Thus, Ionisation Potential increases with
increase in nuclear pull.

Question 3

State the trends in ionisatioin energy:

(a) across the period,

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(b) down the group.

Answer

(a) On moving left to right across a period, the ionisation energy tends to increase as the
atomic size decreases.

(b) On moving down a group the ionisation energy decrease as the atomic size increases.

Question 4

Name the elements with highest and lowest ionisation energies in first three periods.

Answer

Helium has the highest I.E. and Sodium has the lowest I.E. in the first three period.

Question 5

Arrange the elements of second and third period in increasing order of ionisation energy.

Answer

Second Period : Li < Be < B < C < N < O < F < Ne.

Third Period : Na < Mg < Al < Si < P < S < Cl < Ar.

Question 6(a)

Define the term 'electron affinity'. State its unit.

Answer

Electron affinity — The amount of energy released while converting a neutral gaseous
isolated atom into a negatively charged gaseous ion (anion) by the addition of electron is
called Electron Affinity (E.A.)

Unit : electron volts per atom (eV/atom) or kJ mol-1. It is represented by negative sign.

Question 6(b)

Arrange the elements of second period in increasing order of their electron affinity. Name the
elements which do not follow the trend in this period.

Answer

Second Period : Li < B < C < O < F .

Ne , N , Be do not follow the trend.

Question 7

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Electron affinity values generally ......... across the period left to right and .......... down the
group top to bottom.

Answer

Increases , Decreases.

Question 8(a)

Define the term 'Electronegativity'. State its unit.

Answer

Electronegativity — The tendency of an atom in a molecule to attract the shared pair of

electrons towards itself is called its electronegativity.

Electronegativity is a dimensionless property since it is only a tendency. As such, it has no

unit.

Question 8(b)

Among the elements given below, the element with least Electronegativity is:

1. Lithium
2. Boron
3. Carbon
4. Fluorine

Answer

Lithium.

Reason — The given elements belong to period 2. Among these elements, Lithium is the left
most and Fluorine is the right most. As electronegativity increases from left to right in a
period, hence, Lithium is the least Electronegative.

Question 8(c)

The most electronegative element from the following element is:

1. Magnesium
2. Chlorine
3. Aluminium
4. Sulphur

Answer

Chlorine.

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Reason — The given elements belong to period 3. Among these elements, Chlorine is the
right most. As electronegativity increases from left to right in a period, hence, Chlorine is the
most Electronegative.

Question 9

Explain the following:

(a) Group 17 elements are strong non-metals, while group 1 elements are strong metals.

(b) Metallic character of elements decreases from left to right in a period while it increases in
moving down a group.

(c) Halogens have a high electron affinity.

(d) The reducing power of an element increases down in the group while decreases in a
period.

(e) Size of atoms progressively becomes smaller when we move from Sodium (Na) to
Chlorine (Cl) in the third period of the Periodic Table.

Answer

(a) Metals lose electrons whereas non-metals gain electrons to attain stable electronic
configuration. Group 1 elements are placed on the left in the periodic table whereas Group 17
elements are towards right. Hence, the atomic size of Group 1 elements is greater when
compared to the corresponding Group 17 elements as atomic size decreases from left to right
across a period due to increase in nuclear charge. Due to this Group 1 elements can easily
lose electrons making them strong metals. It is difficult for Group 17 elements to lose
electrons due to stronger nuclear pull but it helps in attracting electrons from other elements
making them strong non-metals.

(b) On moving across a period from left to right, nuclear pull increases due to the increase in
atomic number and thus the atomic size decreases. Hence, elements cannot lose electrons
easily. Therefore, the metallic character decreases across a period.
On moving down the group, the atomic size increases and the nuclear charge also increases.
The effect of an increased atomic size is greater as compared to the increased nuclear charge.
Therefore, tendency to lose electron increases and elements can lose electrons easily. Thus,
metallic character of elements increases in moving down a group.

(c) The atomic size of halogens is very small. The smaller the atomic size, the greater the
electron affinity, because the effective attractive force between the nucleus and the valence
electrons is greater in smaller atoms, and so the electrons are strongly held with the atom.

(d) Greater the tendency to lose electrons, stronger is the reducing power. On moving down
the group, the atomic size and nuclear charge increases but the effect of increased atomic size
is greater. Therefore, the tendency to lose electrons increases which increases the reducing
power of elements on moving down in a group.
On moving across the period, nuclear pull increases due to increase in atomic number and
thus the atomic size decreases. Hence, elements cannot lose electrons easily. Therefore,
reducing power of elements decreases on moving across a period from left to right.

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(e) Size of atoms progressively becomes smaller when we move from Sodium (Na) to
Chlorine (Cl) in the third period of the periodic table because on moving from left to right in
a period nuclear pull increases because of increase in atomic number and so the atomic size
decreases.

Question 10

Name the periodic property which relates to the:

(a) amount of energy required to remove an electron from an isolated gaseous atom,

(b) character of element which loses one or more electrons when supplied with energy,

(c) tendency of an atom in a molecule to attract the shared pair of electrons.

Answer

(a) Ionisation Energy (I.E.)

(b) Metallic Character.

(c) Electronegativity.

Question 11

This question refers to the elements of the Periodic Table with atomic numbers from 3 to 18.
Some of the elements are shown by letters, but the letters are not the usual symbols of the
elements.

3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

A B C D E F G H

11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

I J K L M N O P

Which of these :

(a) are most electronegative element ?

(b) is a halogen ?

(c) is an alkali metal ?

(d) is an element with valency 4 ?

(e) have least Ionisation Energy.

22
(f) have least atomic size in period 3.

Answer

(a) The most electronegative elements are G(9) & O(17).

(b) G(9) & O(17) are halogens.

(c) A(3) & I(11) are alkali metals.

(d) D(6) & L(14) are elements with valency 4.

(e) I(11) have least Ionisation Energy.

(f) O(17) have least atomic size in period 3.

Question 12

A group of elements in the Periodic Table are given below (boron is the first member of the
group and Thallium is the last).

Boron, Aluminium, Gallium, Indium, Thallium

Answer the following questions in relation to the above group of elements :

(a) Which element has the most metallic character ?

(b) Which element would be expected to have the highest electronegativity ?

(c) If the electronic configuration of aluminium is 2, 8, 3, how many electrons are there in the
outer shell of thallium ?

(d) The atomic number of boron is 5. Write the chemical formula of the compound formed
when boron reacts with chlorine.

(e) Will the elements in the group to the right of this boron group be more metallic or less
metallic in character ? Justify your answer.

Answer

(a) Thallium has the most metallic character as metallic character increases on moving down
the group.

(b) Boron has the highest electronegativity because the electronegativity decrease on moving
down the group.

(c) There are 3 electrons in the outer shell of thallium because all the elements in a group
have same number of valence electrons.

(d) BCl3 (Boron Chloride).

Boron needs 3 electrons while each chlorine atom can donate one electron. So 3 chlorine
atoms donate 1 electron each to react with 1 Boron atom forming BCl3 (Boron Chloride).

23
(e) The elements in the group to the right of this boron group are less metallic because on
moving left to right in a period metallic character decreases as atomic size decreases the
electrons are strongly bound with the atom so it becomes more difficult to lose an electron.

Exercise 1

Question 1

What is the significance of atomic number in the modern periodic table ?

Answer

Modern periodic table is based on Henry Moseley's modern periodic law which states that
"the physical and chemical properties of elements are the periodic functions of their atomic
number".

Question 2

Arrange the following as per instructions given in the brackets.

(a) Mg, Cl, Na, S, Si (decreasing order of atomic size)

(b) Cs, Na, Li, K, Rb (increasing metallic character)

(c) Na, K, Cl, S, Si (increasing ionisation potential)

(d) Cl, F, Br, I (increasing electron affinity)

(e) Cs, Na, Li, K, Rb (decreasing electronegativity)

(f) K, Pb, Ca, Zn (increasing reactivity)

(g) Li, K, Na, H (decreasing order of their potential ionisation)

Answer

(a) Na > Mg > Si > S > Cl.

(b) Li < Na < K < Rb < Cs.

(c) K < Na < Si < S < Cl.

(d) I < Br < F* < Cl.

Flourine (F) in group 17 is an exception. It has lower electron affinity than Chlorine (Cl).

(e) Li > Na > K > Rb > Cs.

(f) Pb < Zn < Ca < K.

(g) H > Li > Na > K.

24
Question 3

Chlorine in the Periodic Table is surrounded by the elements with atomic number 9, 16, 18,
and 35.

(a) Which of these have Physical and Chemical properties resembling chlorine ?

(b) Which is more electronegative than chlorine ?

Answer

(a) The elements with atomic number 9 (fluorine) & 35 (bromine) have physical properties
resembling chlorine because they belong to the same group.

(b) The element with atomic number 9 (fluorine) is more electronegative than chlorine
because on moving down the group electronegativity decreases.

Question 4

First ionisation enthalpy of two elements X and Y are 500 kJ mol-1 and 375 kJ mol-
1
respectively. Comment about their relative position in a group as well as in a period.

Answer

It is given that,

X = 500 kJ mol-1

Y = 375 kJ mol-1

Their relative position in a group is X & Y as ionisation enthalpy decreases on moving down
the group.

Their relative position in a period is Y & X as ionisation enthalpy increases on moving across
a period.

Question 5

Arrange the following in order of increasing radii :

(a) Cl- , Cl

(b) Mg2+ , Mg , Mg+

(c) N, O, P

Answer

(a) Cl < Cl-.

Reason — Anion is greater in size than its parent atom.

25
(b) Mg2+ < Mg+ < Mg.
Reason — Cation is smaller in size than its parent atom.

(c) O < N < P.

Reason — Between Oxygen (O) and Nitrogen (N), atomic size of Nitrogen (N) is more as it
is to the left of Oxygen (O) in period 2. Between Nitrogen (N) and Phosphorus (P),
Phosphorus (P) has larger atomic size as it comes after Nitrogen (N) in group 5A.

Question 6

Which element from the following has the highest ionisation energy ?

(a) P, Na, Cl

(b) F, O, Ne

(c) Ne, He, Ar

Explain your choice.

Answer

(a) Cl — Among the three elements, Cl is the rightmost in period 3. As ionisation energy
increases when moving across a period from left to right hence ionisation energy is highest
for Cl.

(b) Ne — It is the rightmost element in period 2 and an inert gas. Hence it has the highest
ionisation energy.

(c) He — Ne, He, Ar belong to group 18 and He is at the top. As ionisation energy decreases
when moving down the group hence He has the highest ionisation energy.

Question 7

The electronegativities (according to Pauling) of the elements in Period 3 of the Periodic

Table are as follows with the elements arranged in alphabetical order :

Al Cl Mg Na P S Si

1.5 3.0 1.2 0.9 2.1 2.5 1.8

Arrange the elements in the order in which they occur in the Periodic Table from left to right.

(The group 1 element first, followed by the group 2 element and so on, up to group 7).

Answer

We know that electronegativity increases from left to right in a period. Hence, the order of
the elements in the periodic table is:

26
Na, Mg, Al, Si, P, S, Cl.

Question 8

Choose the word or phrase from the brackets which correctly completes each of the following
statements :-

(a) The element below sodium in the same group would be expected to have a ..............
(lower/higher) electro-negativity than sodium and the element above chlorine would be
expected to have a ............. (lower/higher) ionization potential than chlorine.

(b) On moving from left to right in a given period, the number of shells ............... (remains
the same/increases/decreases).

(c) On moving down a group, the number of valence electrons .............. (remains the
same/increases/decreases).

(d) Metals are good ............... (oxidising agent / reducing agent) because they are
electron ............ (acceptors / donors).

Answer

(a) lower, higher.

(b) remains the same.

(c) remains the same.

(d) reducing agent, donors.

Question 9

Part (a) to (e) refer to changes in the properties of elements on moving from left to right
across a period of the Periodic Table. For each property, choose the correct answer.

(a) The non-metallic character of the elements :

1. decreases
2. increases
3. remains the same
4. depends on the period

(b) The electronegativity :

1. depends on the number of valence electrons

2. remains the same
3. decreases
4. increases

(c) The ionization potential :

27
 1. goes up and down
2. decreases
3. increases
4. remains the same

(d) The atomic size :

1. decreases
2. increases
3. remains the same
4. sometimes increases and sometimes decreases.

(e) The electron affinity of the elements in groups 1 to 7 :

1. goes up and then down

2. decreases and then increases
3. increases
4. decreases

Answer

(a) increases.

(b) increases.

(c) increases.

(d) decreases.

(e) increases.

Question 10

The elements of one short period of the Periodic Table are given below in order from left to
right :

Li Be B C O F Ne

(a) To which period do these elements belong ?

(b) One element of this period is missing. Which is the missing element and where should it
be placed ?

(c) Place the three elements fluorine, beryllium and nitrogen in the order of increasing
electronegativity.

(d) Which one of the above elements belongs to the halogen series ?

Answer

28
(a) These elements belong to the 2nd period.

(b) The missing element is Nitrogen. It belongs to the Group 15 and should be placed as
shown below:
Li Be B C N O F

(c) Beryllium < Nitrogen < Fluorine.

(d) Fluorine.

Question 11

With reference to the variation of properties in the Periodic Table, which of the following is
generally true ?

(a) Atomic size increases from left to right across a period.

(b) Ionization potential increases from left to right across a period.

(c) Electron affinity increases going down a group.

(d) Electro-negativity increases going down a group.

Answer

(a) False
Atomic size decreases from left to right across a period.

(b) True.

(c) False
Electron affinity decreases going down a group.

(d) False
Electro-negativity decreases going down a group.

Question 12

Atomic numbers of elements A, B, C, D, E, F, are 8, 7, 11, 12, 13 and 9 respectively. State

the type of ions they form.

Answer

The electronic configuration of the given elements are:

A(8) = (2, 6 ) — A forms anion.

B(7) = (2, 5 ) — B forms anion.

C(11) = (2, 8, 1) — C forms cation.

D(12) = (2, 8, 2) — D forms cation.

29
E(13) = (2, 8, 3) — E forms cation.

F(9) = (2, 7 ) — F forms anion.

Question 13(a)

Formula of ion of A is A2+. Element A probably belongs to ................ group.

Answer

2nd Group.
Reason — Since A loses 2 electrons to form an anion, A2+ so its valency is 2. Hence, it
belongs to the 2nd group.

Question 13(b)

In a period, increase in electron affinity increases ................. (oxidation/reduction).

Answer

reduction.
Reason — With increase in electron affinity it becomes easier to accept an electron. Hence, it
increases reduction.

Question 13(c)

On descending a group, ............... (increase/decrease) in ionisation potential as well as

electron affinity ............... (increases/decreases) oxidising capacity.

Answer

decreases, decreases.

Down a group both ionisation potential and electron affinity decrease hence, tendency to lose
electrons increase and oxidising capacity decreases.

Question 1(2009)

In the table below, H does not represent hydrogen. Some elements are given in their own
symbol and position in the periodic table while others are shown with a letter.

(a) Among period 2 elements A, B, C and D, the one which has highest electron affinity is: A.
Lithium B. Carbon C. Fluorine D. Neon

(b)

30
 1A IIA IIIA IVA VA VIA VIIA O
1 2 13 14 15 16 17 18

Li D O J Ne

A Mg E Si H K

B C F G L

Select from the table:

(i) Which is the most electronegative?

(ii) How many valence electrons are present in G?

(iii) Write the formula of the compound between B and H.

(iv) In the compound between F and J, what type of bond will be formed?

(v) Draw the electron dot structure for the compound formed between C and K.

Answer

(a) Fluorine has the highest electron affinity.

(b) With reference to the table:

(i) J is the most electronegative.

(ii) G has 5 valence electrons.

(iii) B2H is the name of the compound between B and H.

(iv) Covalent bond will be formed between F and J.

(v) Electron dot structure for the compound formed between C and K is shown below:

31
Question 1(2010)

(a) The number of electrons in the valence shell of a halogen is ............... A — 1, B — 3, C

— 5, D — 7.

(b) Electro negativity across the period ............... [increases/decreases].

(c) Non metallic character down the group ............... [increases/decreases].

(d) Atomic number of an element is 16. State :

1. To which period it belongs.

2. The number of valence electrons in the element.
3. Is the element a metal or a non metal.

Answer

(a) The number of electrons in the valence shell of halogen is 7.

(b) Electro negativity across a period increases.

(c) Non metallic character down the group decreases.

(d) Element with atomic number 16:

1. It belongs to the 3rd period.

2. The number of valence electrons are 6.
3. It is a non metal.

Question 1a(2011)

Give reasons - The oxidizing power of elements increases from left to right along a period.

32
Answer

The oxidizing power of elements increases from left to right along a period because electro-
negativity and the non metallic character increases from left to right. As oxidizing power
depends on tendency to gain electrons and non-metals are good oxidizing agents hence
oxidizing power of elements increases across a period.

Question 1b(2011)

Select the correct answer :

(i) Across a period, the ionization potential .......... (increases, decreases, remains same).

(ii) Down the group, the electron affinity .......... (increases, decreases, remains same).

Answer

(i) Across a period, the ionization potential increases.

(ii) Down the group, the electron affinity decreases

Question 1c(2011)

Choose the correct answer:

(i) In the periodic table, alkali metals are placed in the group ...........

1. 1
2. 11
3. 17
4. 18

(ii) Which of the following properties do not match with elements of the halogen family?

1. They have seven electrons in their valence shell.

2. They are highly reactive chemically.
3. They are metallic in nature.
4. They are diatomic in their molecular form.

Answer

(i) 1
Reason — In the periodic table, alkali metals are placed in the group 1 as they have one
electron in the outer most shell.

(ii) They are metallic in nature.

Reason — Halogens are non-metallic in character.

Question 1d(2011)

33
State the group and period of the element having three shells with three electrons in the
valence shell.

Answer

The element having three shells with three electrons in the valence shell is in group 13 [III
A] and period 3.

Question 1a(2012)

Choose the correct answer from the option: An element in period 3 whose electron affinity is
zero.

1. Neon
2. Sulphur
3. Sodium
4. Argon

Answer

Argon
Reason — Electron affinity of argon is zero as Argon is in 3rd period and is an inert gas.
Electron affinity of inert gases is zero.

Question 1b(2012)

Give reasons:

(i) Ionization potential of element increases across a period from left to right.

(ii) Alkali metals are good reducing agents.

Answer

(i) The ionization potential of element increases across a period because the atomic size
decreases due to an increase in nuclear charge and electrons in the outermost shell are more
strongly held because of which greater energy is required to remove the electron.

(ii) Alkali metals have one electron in their valence shell. In order to be stable, they easily
lose this electron and get oxidized. Hence, they are good reducing agents.

Question 1c(2012)

There are three elements E, F and G with atomic numbers 19, 8 and 17, respectively.

Classify the elements as metals and non-metals.

Answer

The electronic configuration of the given elements is as follows :

34
E = 19 = 2, 8, 8, 1

F = 8 = 2, 6

G = 17 = 2, 8, 7

We observe that E has 1 electron in the outer most shell, hence it will try to lose it's electron
and attain a stable state. Therefore, it is a metal.

On the other hand, F and G will try to gain 2 and 1 electron respectively in order to attain a
stable state. Hence, they are non-metals.

Question 1d(2012)

Name : A metal present in period 3, group 1 of the periodic table.

Answer

Sodium is a metal present in period 3 and group 1 of the periodic table.

Question 1a(2013)

Among the period 2 elements, the element which has high electron affinity is

1. Lithium
2. Carbon
3. Chlorine
4. Fluorine

Answer

Fluorine has the highest Electron affinity.

Question 1b(2013)

In the table below, H does not represent hydrogen. Some elements are given in their own
symbol and position in the periodic table, while others are shown with a letter.

Group
1 - IA 2 - IIA 13 - IIIA 14 - IVA 15 - VA 16 - VIA 17 - VIIA 18 -
numbers

2nd period Li D O J Ne

3rd period A Mg E Si H M

4th period R T I Q u y

Answer the following questions:

35
(i) Identify the most electronegative element.

(ii) Identify the most reactive element of group IA or 1.

(iii) Identify the element from period 3 with least atomic size.

(iv) How many valence electrons are present in Q.

(v) Which element from group 2 would have the least ionization energy?

(vi) Identify the noble gas of the fourth period.

(vii) In the compound between A and H, what type of bond is formed and give it's molecular
formula.

Answer

(i) J is the most electronegative element.

(ii) R is the most reactive element of group 1.

(iii) M is the element from period 3 with least atomic size.

(iv) 5 valence electrons present in Q.

(v) T is the element from group 2 which has least ionization energy.

(vi) y is the noble gas of the fourth period.

(vii) ionic bond is formed between A and H.

The molecular formula is :

2A + H ⟶ A2H

Question 1c(2013)

Identify : The element which has the highest ionization potential.

Answer

Helium has highest ionization potential.

Question 1a(2014)

Choose the correct answer from the choice given:

(i) Ionization potential increases over a period from left to right because the:

1. Atomic radius and nuclear charge increases

2. Atomic radius and nuclear charge decreases
3. Atomic radius increases and nuclear charge decreases

36
 4. Atomic radius decreases and nuclear charge increases

(ii) An element A belonging to Period 3 and Group II will have :

1. 3 shells and 2 valence electrons

2. 2 shells and 3 valence electrons
3. 3 shells and 3 valence electrons
4. 2 shells and 2 valence electrons

Answer

(i) Atomic radius decreases and nuclear charge increases

Reason — The ionization potential of element tends to increase across a period from left to
right because the atomic size decreases due to an increase in nuclear charge and electrons in
the outermost shell are more strongly held because of which greater energy is required to
remove the electron.

(ii) 3 shells and 2 valence electrons

Reason — Period of an element determines the number of shells and group determines
number of valence electrons.

Question 1b(2014)

Atomic number of an element Z is 16. Answer the following:

(i) State the period and group to which Z belongs.

(ii) Is Z a metal or a non-metal?

(iii) State the formula of the compound between Z and hydrogen.

(iv) What kind of a compound is this?

Answer

(i) The element belongs to 3rd period and 16 [VI A] group.

Reason — The element Z has atomic number 16 and so the electronic configuration will be
2, 8, 6. The number of shells present in an atom determines it's period. Hence, Z will belong
to 3rd period as it has three shells. The number of valence electrons determine the group of the
element. Hence, Z will belong to group 16 [VI A] as it has 6 electrons in the valence shell.

(ii) Z is a non metal.

(iii) It forms H2Z

(iv) It is a weak acid.

Question 1d(2014)

37
In the activity series of metals — M is a metal above hydrogen in the activity series and it's
oxide has the formula M2O. M2O when dissolved in water forms the corresponding hydroxide
which is a good conductor of electricity. In the above context, answer the following :

(i) What kind of combination exists between M and O?

(ii) State the number of electrons in the outermost shell of M ?

(iii) Name the group to which M belongs.

Answer

Given, M is a metal

(i) Electrovalent bond exits between M and O because the bond is formed between a metal
and non-metal due to oppositely charged ions.

(ii) Number of electrons in the outer most shell of M is 1. It is so because the valency of O is
-2 and as 2 atoms of M combine with O to form M2O, hence we can say that M has 1 valence
electron.

(iii) M belongs to group 1 [1A] because there is 1 electron in the outer most shell.

Question 1e(2014)

Give one word or a phrase for : Amount of energy released when an atom in the gaseous state
accepts an electron to form an anion.

Answer

Electron affinity is the amount of energy released when an atom in the gaseous state accepts
an electron to form an anion.

Question 1f(2014)

Match the option A and B with the statements (i) and (ii) :

A. metal (i) The metal that forms two types of ion

B. iron (ii) An element with electronic configuration 2, 8, 8, 3

(i) The metal which forms two types of ions

(ii) An element with electronic configuration 2, 8, 8, 3

Answer

(i) The metal which forms two types of ions — B : Iron

(ii) An element with electronic configuration 2, 8, 8, 3 — A : Metal

38
Question 1a(2015)

Among the elements given below, the element with the least electronegativity is :

1. Lithium
2. Carbon
3. Boron
4. Fluorine

Answer

Lithium
Reason — Electronegativity increases from left to right. As Lithium is on the left side in
periodic table hence it is the least electronegativity among the given options.

Question 1b(2015)

The metals of Group 2 in the periodic table from top to bottom are — Be, Mg, Ca, Sr, and
Ba.

(i) Which one of these elements will form ions most readily and why?

(ii) State the common feature in the electronic configuration of all these given elements.

Answer

(i) Ba - Elements at the bottom of a group are most metallic, have large atomic size and
lowest ionisation potential. So, the outer electrons are loosely held and will form ions from
metals most readily and thus are more reactive.

(ii) As the elements belong to group 2 thus they all have 2 electrons in the valence shell.

Question 1a(2016)

Metals are good ............... (oxidising/reducing agent) because they are electron ...............
(acceptor/donor).

Answer

Metals are good reducing agent (oxidising/reducing agent) because they are
electron donor (acceptor/donor).

Question 1b(2016)

An element with the atomic number 19 will most likely combine chemically with the element
whose atomic number is:

1. 17
2. 11
3. 18

39
 4. 20

Answer

17
Reason — The element with atomic number 19 has electronic configuration of (2, 8, 8, 1)
and that with atomic number 17 has electronic configuration of (2, 8, 7). This element with
atomic number 17 needs 1 electron to complete its octet whereas element with atomic number
19 has an extra electron. Hence, an element with atomic number 19 is most likely to combine
with the element with atomic number 17.

Question 1b(2016)

Rewrite the following sentences by using the correct symbol > (greater than) or < (less than)
in the blanks given :

(i) The ionization potential of potassium is .......... that of sodium.

(ii) The electronegativity of iodine is .......... that of chlorine.

Answer

(i) The ionization potential of potassium is < (less than) that of Sodium.

(ii) The electronegativity of iodine is < (less than) that of chlorine.

Question 1d(2016)

Fill in the blanks by selecting the correct word :

(i) If an element has a low ionization energy then it is likely to be ............... (metallic/non
metallic).

(ii) If an element has seven electrons in it's outermost shell then it is likely to have
the ............... (largest/smallest) atomic size among all the elements in the same period.

Answer

(i) If an element has a low ionization energy then it is likely to be metallic.

(ii) If an element has seven electrons in it's outermost shell then it is likely to have
the smallest atomic size among all the elements in the same period.

Question 1a(2018)

In Period 3 of the Periodic Table, element B is placed to the left of element A. On the basis of
this information, choose the correct word from the brackets to complete the following
statements:

(i) The element B would have (lower/higher) metallic character than A.

40
 (ii) The element A would probably have (lesser/higher) electron affinity than B.

(iii) The element A would have (greater/smaller) atomic size than B.

Answer

If the element are placed as B and then A in the 3rd period of the periodic table then

(i) The element B would have higher metallic character than A as metallic character
decreases across a period.

(ii) The element A would probably have higher electron affinity than B as electron affinity
increases across a period.

(iii) The element A would have smaller atomic size than B as atomic size decreases across a
period.

Question 1a(2019)

Study the extract of the Periodic Table given below and answer the questions. Give the
alphabet corresponding to the element in question. Do not repeat an element.

C D E

B G F

(i) Which element forms electrovalent compound with G.

(ii) The ion of which element will migrate towards the cathode during electrolysis.

(iii) Which non-metallic element has the valency of 2?

(iv) Which is an inert gas?

Answer

(i) B forms an electrovalent compound with G.

(ii) A has positive ions which migrate towards cathode.

(iii) E is non-metallic and has a valency of 2 as it belongs to group 16.

(iv) F is an inert gas as it belongs to the zero group.

41