Current Periodic Table | Active Summary

Objectives

1.  Understand the structure and organization of the current Periodic Table, recognizing both the arrangement of elements and the properties that characterize them.

2.  Identify and locate elements in the Periodic Table, differentiating between metals, nonmetals, and metalloids, and exploring the characteristics of chemical families.

3.  Apply the knowledge gained about the Periodic Table in practical and theoretical contexts, recognizing its importance in various scientific and technological applications.

Contextualization

Did you know that the Periodic Table is not just a study tool for chemists, but a 'bible' that guides scientific discoveries around the world? It is constantly updated, and its arrangement reflects not only the structure of atoms but also their chemical and physical properties. In fact, the Periodic Table is so crucial that in 2019, UNESCO declared the International Year of the Periodic Table to celebrate its 150th anniversary. From pharmacology to astrophysics, the periodic table is an indispensable tool for scientists in all fields!

Important Topics

Groups/Families

The groups or families in the Periodic Table are the vertical columns that show elements with similar chemical properties. Each group is identified by a number and a letter, which usually corresponds to the number of electrons in the valence shell. For example, group 1 consists of alkali metals, which are extremely reactive, while group 18, the noble gases, are known for their stability and low reactivity.

• Elements in the same group tend to form ions with the same charge.

• The noble gases, located in group 18, are known for being monoatomic under normal conditions, meaning they do not bond with other atoms.

• The position of an element in a group can help predict some of its chemical properties.

Periods

The periods in the Periodic Table are the horizontal rows that indicate the number of electron shells in an atom. Each period starts with an alkali metal and ends with a noble gas. The property that varies most across a period is ionization energy, which is the energy required to remove an electron from the valence shell.

• The addition of an electron and a proton to each element along a period increases the effective nuclear charge, which can influence the properties of the element.

• Elements in the same period have the same number of electron shells, which can affect their chemical similarities.

• Elements located in the same period may show predictable trends in properties such as atomic radius and electronegativity.

Metals, Nonmetals, and Metalloids

In the Periodic Table, metals are predominant on the left and in the center, while nonmetals are on the right. Metalloids can be found between metals and nonmetals, exhibiting intermediate properties. This classification is crucial for understanding the physical and chemical properties of elements, such as electrical and thermal conductivity.

• Metals tend to form cations in aqueous solutions, while nonmetals form anions.

• Metalloids can exhibit metallic or nonmetallic behavior, depending on the conditions.

• Properties such as luster, malleability, and conductivity are typical characteristics of metals.

Key Terms

• Periodic Table: An arrangement of all known elements in order of their increasing atomic number, which demonstrates periodicity and similarities in the chemical properties of the elements.

• Valence Shell: The outermost shell of electrons in an atom, which primarily determines the chemical properties of the element.

• Ionization Energy: The amount of energy required to remove an electron from the valence shell of an atom, which generally increases from one corner of the Periodic Table to another.

To Reflect

• How can the position of an element in the Periodic Table help us predict its chemical properties?

• Why is it important to understand the difference between metals, nonmetals, and metalloids in terms of practical and theoretical applications in chemistry?

• Think of an element and discuss how its properties relate to its position in the Periodic Table.

Important Conclusions

• We explored the structure of the Periodic Table, learning about groups, periods, and how elements are organized according to their chemical properties.

• We discussed the difference between metals, nonmetals, and metalloids, and how this classification impacts the properties and applications of elements in everyday life and science.

• We reinforced the importance of the Periodic Table as a vital tool for scientists in various fields, enabling the prediction of chemical behaviors and the development of new materials and technologies.

To Exercise Knowledge

Create a mind map of the Periodic Table, including characteristics of the main groups. Use different colors and symbols to represent different properties of the elements. Share your mind map with a classmate and discuss design choices and information organization.

Challenge

Mystical Element Challenge: Choose one element from the Periodic Table and create a story or poem that personifies the element, incorporating its properties and uses. Present your creation to the class in a creative format of your choice (video, poster, etc.)!

Study Tips

• Use interactive Periodic Table apps that allow you to explore the properties of elements and test your knowledge through games and quizzes.

• Watch educational videos that explain the history of the Periodic Table and how it has evolved over time, helping to understand the context behind the organization of elements.

• Practice writing electronic configurations of the elements, which can help visualize the structure of atoms and how this influences periodic properties.