What Are The Vertical Column In Periodic Table Called

July 1, 2018

The periodic table of elements is an essential tool in the scientific community, providing a visual representation of the atomic structure of the elements. It can be used to predict their properties and reactions, as well as their interactions with other elements. But what are the vertical columns in the periodic table called? Let’s take a closer look at this important structure.

The vertical columns of elements in the periodic table are referred to as “groups” or “families”. The groups are numbered from 1 to 18, and each group contains elements that have similar physical and chemical properties. The elements in a group are arranged in order of increasing atomic number. This means that the elements with lower atomic numbers are placed at the top of the group, while those with higher atomic numbers are placed at the bottom. The elements in Group 1 are known as the alkali metals, while the elements in Group 17 are known as the halogens.

Groups are divided into several subgroups, which are further subdivided into elements. For example, Group 3 includes the lanthanides and actinides, while Group 16 contains the chalcogens. These subgroups contain elements that share certain characteristics, such as a similar electron configuration or certain reactivity properties. Knowing the subgroup of an element can help scientists understand how it will interact with other elements.

The arrangement of elements in the periodic table follows certain patterns. Each group has a specific number of electrons in its outermost shell, known as the valence shell. Elements in the same group have the same number of valence electrons, which gives them similar chemical properties. This allows scientists to easily identify elements with similar characteristics. For example, the alkali metals all have one valence electron, while the halogens all have seven valence electrons.

The vertical columns in the periodic table also tell us the atomic number of each element. The atomic number is the number of protons in the nucleus of an atom. This number determines the identity of an element, and it is used to organize the elements in the periodic table. The elements are ordered by increasing atomic number, so elements with lower atomic numbers are placed at the top of a group, while those with higher atomic numbers are placed at the bottom.

The vertical columns in the periodic table are an essential part of understanding the chemical and physical properties of elements. By understanding the groups and subgroups of elements, scientists can make predictions about how different elements will interact and react with each other. This knowledge can be used to develop new materials and products, as well as to create medicines and other technological advances.

Periodic Table Of Elements With Worked Solutions S