Periodic Table of the Elements: Notes & Review

These flashcards cover key concepts about the periodic table, atomic structure, elements, and their properties.

What determines the identity of an atom?

The identity of an atom is determined by the number of protons in its nucleus, called the atomic number.

What is a neutron?

A neutron is an uncharged particle located in the nucleus.

How are isotopes defined?

Isotopes are atoms of the same element that have a different number of neutrons.

What is the atomic mass number?

The atomic mass number is the total number of protons and neutrons in an atom's nucleus.

What do the groups or families on the periodic table represent?

Groups represent columns of elements that show similarities in their chemical and physical properties.

What is the reactivity of an element based on?

Reactivity is based on the number of valence electrons an element has.

Which groups are the most reactive on the periodic table?

Group 1 (alkali metals) with one valence electron and Group 17 (halogens) with seven valence electrons are the most reactive.

What are ions?

Ions are formed when an atom loses or gains one or more electrons, resulting in an overall electric charge.

What color should be used to outline metals on the periodic table?

Pick a color to outline the metals on your periodic table excluding hydrogen.

What defines the group of halogens?

Halogens are very reactive nonmetals that easily form compounds called salts with many metals, located in Group 17.

What are noble gases characterized by?

Noble gases are characterized by having full valence electron shells and almost never react with other elements.

How do properties change across a period of elements?

Properties of elements change in a predictable way from one end of a period to the other.

What do transition metals typically have regarding their reactivity?

Transition metals are generally less reactive than most other metals.

What are the lanthanides and actinides?

Lanthanides and actinides are special series of elements typically removed from the main body of the periodic table for compactness.

What are metalloids?

Metalloids are elements that have properties of both metals and nonmetals.

Which element is the most common metalloid?

Silicon is the most common metalloid.