Group 13 (p-Block) Elements – Vocabulary Review

A comprehensive set of vocabulary flashcards covering properties, extraction methods, chemistry and major uses of the p-block Group 13 elements (B, Al, Ga, In, Tl).

What are Group 13 elements, also known as the boron family?

The boron family: boron (B), aluminium (Al), gallium (Ga), indium (In) and thallium (Tl).

What is the only non-metal in Group 13?

Boron

What us the oxidation state of Al

+3

What is the oxidation state of thallium

+1

What is the electron configuration for Group 13 elements, specifically their valence configuration?

Valence configuration ns²np¹; three outer-shell electrons (full s orbital + one p-electron).

What is the common oxidation state for Group 13 elements, such as B, Al, Ga, and In?

+1

What is the stable oxidation state for heavier Group 13 members like Thallium?

+1 this is because of inert pair effect

What is the inert pair effect, affecting valence-shell ns² electrons?

the valence-shell ns² electron not participate in bonding, stabilising lower (+1) oxidation states in heavy p-block elements.

What is the atomic/ionic radius trend in Group 13, and which element has the largest radii?

Increases down the group; thallium has the largest radii.

What is the electrode potential trend in Group 13, and how does it affect chemical reactivity?

Becomes more positive down the group; chemical reactivity correspondingly decreases.

What is the ionization energy trend in Group 13?

Generally decreases down the group, though Tl deviates from the trend.

What are electron-deficient compounds, and how do they behave as Lewis acids?

Molecules with fewer than eight electrons around the central atom (e.g., BH₃); act as strong Lewis acids.

What is a Lewis acid, and how do Group 13 compounds often act as them?

Electron-pair acceptor; many Group 13 halides/boranes act as strong Lewis acids.