Group Elements and Their Properties

This final section of the GCSE Chemistry atomic structure study guide delves into specific groups of elements in the periodic table, focusing on their unique properties and behaviors.

Group 7 elements, known as halogens, are introduced. These include fluorine, chlorine, bromine, and iodine. Their general properties and trends within the group are discussed.

Vocabulary: Halogens - A group of non-metallic elements in Group 7 of the periodic table.

Group 1 elements, the alkali metals, are described in detail. These include lithium, sodium, potassium, rubidium, caesium, and francium. Their common characteristics, such as having one electron in their outer shell and high reactivity, are explained.

Highlight: Alkali metals become less reactive as you go down the group, but their melting and boiling points increase.

Group 0 elements, the noble gases, are presented as a unique group with very low reactivity. Elements such as helium, neon, and argon are mentioned.

Definition: Noble gases are a group of elements with full outer electron shells, making them extremely stable and unreactive.

The properties of noble gases are elaborated upon, including their existence as monatomic gases, colorless appearance at room temperature, and non-flammability. The trend in boiling points and relative atomic mass within the group is also noted.

Example: Noble gases include helium, neon, argon, krypton, xenon, and radon.