6.2: Classifying the Elements The Periodic Table 6.2: Classifying the Elements
Periodic Squares May (or may not) show: Symbol/name Atomic number Average atomic mass Location (in nature or not) Group location Etc.
Group Locations on P.T. Group 1A Elements: Alkali Metals Group 2A: Alkaline Earth Metals Group 7A Nonmetals: Halogens
Electrons are very important when determining characteristics of elements. Based on electron number and location around nucleus, elements can be sorted into classes as follows:
The Noble Gases Group 8A elements Helium, Neon, Argon, Krypton, Xenon, and Radon Sometimes called inert gases because they rarely take part in reactions
The Representative Elements Groups 1A through 7A Display a wide range of physical and chemical properities
Transition Metals Group B Elements (main body of periodic table) Characterized by electron presence
Inner Transition Metals Appear below the main body of the periodic table AKA: Rare Earth Metals (misleading because some are more abundant than other elements)