Regions in Periodic Table of Elements

These flashcards cover key vocabulary terms and concepts related to the periodic table of elements, essential for understanding the structure and classification of elements.

Periodic Table

A tabular arrangement of elements organized by increasing atomic number and grouped based on similar properties.

Period

A horizontal row in the periodic table.

Group

A vertical column in the periodic table, also referred to as a family.

Representative Elements

Elements in groups 1, 2, and 13–18 with predictable properties.

Transition Metals

Elements in the middle of the periodic table, known for their variable properties.

Metalloids

Elements that have properties of both metals and nonmetals.

Alkali Metals

Highly reactive metals found in Group 1 of the periodic table.

Alkaline Earth Metals

Reactive metals located in Group 2 of the periodic table.

Noble Gases

Inert gases found in Group 18, characterized by their lack of chemical reactivity.

Halogens

Very reactive nonmetals located in Group 17.

Mendeleev

A chemist known for creating the first recognizable periodic table based on atomic masses.

Moseley

A scientist who established the concept of atomic number, leading to the modern arrangement of the periodic table.

Dobereiner

A chemist who proposed the first periodic law, classifying elements into triads based on similar properties.

Atomic Number

The number of protons in the nucleus of an atom, used to identify elements.

Chemical Properties

Characteristics of elements that determine how they react with other substances.

Lanthanides

A series of 15 elements from atomic number 57 to 71, known for their use in modern technology.

Actinides

A series of 15 elements from atomic number 89 to 103, many of which are radioactive.

Metals

Elements that are generally lustrous, malleable, ductile, and good conductors of heat and electricity.

Nonmetals

Elements that lack metallic properties, often dull and poor conductors of heat and electricity.

Metalloids

Elements that exhibit properties intermediate between metals and nonmetals.