2.7 An Introduction to the Periodic Table

        Study Space ChemTour

          The Periodic Table

Glossary

group (family): a vertical column of elements in the periodic table having the same valence electron configuration and showing similar properties

period: horizontal rows of elements in the periodic table

metal: an element that gives up electrons relatively easily and is lustrous, malleable, and a good conductor of heat and electricity

nonmetal: an element not exhibiting metallic characteristics. Chemically, a typical nonmetal accepts electrons from a metal

alkali metals: Group 1A metals; all very active elements that readily form ions with a 1+ charge when they react with nonmetals

alkaline earth metals: Group 2A metals; all form ions with a 2+ charge when they react with nonmetals

halogens: Group 7A elements; all form diatomic molecules

noble gases: Group 8A elements; all exist under normal conditions as monatomic (single-atom) gases and have little chemical reactivity