The atomic structure and periodic trends across Period 3 elements showcase fundamental patterns in chemical properties and behavior. The modern periodic table arranges elements by atomic number, revealing crucial trends in atomic radius, electronegativity, and ionization energy.
- Atomic radius decreases across Period 3 due to increasing nuclear charge and electron attraction
- Electronegativity generally increases across the period as atoms gain stronger electron-attracting properties
- First ionization energy shows an overall increasing trend with some variations due to electron configurations
- Melting points vary based on atomic structure and bonding types, with notable differences between metals and non-metals
- The periodic table's organization reflects these trends, helping predict element properties and chemical behavior