CH 302 Metal and Non-metal Fun Facts

Boron

Usually forms only three covalent bonds, which is contrary to the octet rule. Found in boric acid which is used to kill ants and borax which is used as a detergent

Nitrogen

Can assume many oxidation states (-3 to +5). It is found in explosives, fertilizers, and as an oxide in laughing gas, Viagra, smog, and preservatives

Carbon

Has three allotopes including C₆₀, which forms interesting tubular and spherical structures, graphite, which is sp² hybridized and diamond, which is sp³ hydridized

Phosphorus

Is found in man made common materials including soaps, toothpaste, fertilizer, and pesticides. The backbone in nucleic acids like DNA. Causes algae bloom and increasingly their use is discouraged for environmental purposes

Halides

Have small radii, high ionization energy, high electronegativity, and form -1 anions. Their oxides and hydrides are acidic

Fluoride

Inserts instead of OH^- in tooth enamel to protect from decay

Chlorine

A strong oxidizing agent. Used in disinfection and sanitation. Also used to make PVC tubing

Noble Gases

Are inert with 2 or 8 electrons in filled shells. Specialty uses include as cryogens, inert gases, and lights

Aluminum

The lightest metal commonly used in commercial applications. Obtained from the energy intensive Bayer process and Hall process. The oxide that forms ruby, sapphire, and topaz gemstones

Alkali Metals

Have large radii, low ionization energy, low electronegativity, and form +1 cations. Their oxides and hydrides are basic. React vigorously in water.

Beryllium

Forms covalent bonds because of its relatively small size and ability to attract electrons

Calcium

In building materials from concrete to teeth

Mg²⁺

In chlorophyll, makes the molecule more rigid to permit electron transport for photosynthesis instead of energy loss through vibrations