Periodic Table of Elements Basics

The periodic table arranges elements by increasing atomic number and similar properties. It is divided into rows (periods) and columns (groups). Each element on the table has an atomic number, symbol, name, and average atomic mass. Elements in the same family have similar properties and the same number of valence electrons.

Atomic number is the number of protons found in the nucleus of an atom, while average atomic mass is the mass of an atom including protons, neutrons, and electrons. They are important in determining the unique identity and properties of each element.

Elements within a family have similar but not identical properties, and they share the same number of valence electrons. For example, lithium (Li), sodium (Na), potassium (K), and other members of family IA are all soft, white, shiny metals.

<p>A period consists of the elements in any one horizontal row of the periodic table. Elements in a period are not alike in properties, and their properties change as you move across the period.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Atomic mass refers to the 'weight' of the atom and is derived by adding the number of protons and neutrons. It represents the total mass of the atom's nucleus and determines the overall mass of the element.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>By adding the number of protons and neutrons</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Number of protons</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Due to having the same number of valence electrons</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>It represents the number of protons in the nucleus</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>They are composed of only one type of atom</p> Signup and view all the answers