- The periodic table can be very useful for learning about elements, as it can show an element's symbol, atomic number and so forth.
- The periodic table is organized into groups and periods.
- Groups are the vertical rows which show the number of valence electrons an atom has.
- Thus all elements in the same group have the same number of electrons in the outermost shell.
- Periods are the horizontal rows which show the number of electron shells an atom has.
- Likewise all elements in the same period have the same number of electron shells.
Groups of the Periodic Table
- Alkali metals
- Alkali earth metals
3 to 12 are the transition elements, and are comprimised of various metals. Underneath the transition elements are the inner transition elements
13. Boron group
14. Carbon group
15. Nitrogen group
16. Chalcogens
17. Halogens
18. Noble gases
Notable Properties
- Alkali metals and alkali earth metals are both very reactive, as they have only one and two valence electrons respectively, meaning they have a strong urge to give up their valence electrons to form a full valence shield.
- Halogens are also very reactive as they have 7 valence electrons, meaning they need one more valence electron to form a full shield.
- Noble gases are very unreactive as they all have full octet shields, and are often found on their own in nature.