ATAR Notes: Forum
VCE Stuff => VCE Science => VCE Mathematics/Science/Technology => VCE Subjects + Help => VCE Biology => Topic started by: biology1234 on June 15, 2021, 02:58:22 pm
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Nitrogen, N, is in period 2, group 5A ( Group 15). Which of the following elements would have properties most similar to nitrogen.
A) Phosphorus, P ( period 3, group 5A) (group 15)
B) Oxygen, O ( period 2, group 6A ( Group 16)
C) Neon, Ne ( period 2, group 8A ( Group 18)
D) Sodium, Na because its symbol also starts with N
I am thinking the answer is C because Neon and Nitrogen are in the same period meaning they would have same amount of valence electrons, I am also thinking it could be A, but not sure.
If you guys could help, would appreciate greatly.
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Hey biology1234,
Your logic is right- it’s the number of valence ELECTRONS that will give them similar properties. (eg. The group 1 metals are all very reactive as they readily give up a single electron. On the other hand the noble gasses (group 18) are inert as they have a full valence shell.)
However, it is the group number rather than the period that determines the number of valence electrons.
Elements in the same PERIOD have the same number of valence SHELLS. Elements in the same GROUP have the same number of valence ELECTRONS.
As nitrogen is in Group 5A, the answer is A. Phosphorus is also in Group 5A.
Hope this helps!
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Thank you very helpful