Overview
This lecture presents a musical overview of the elements in the periodic table, highlighting their order, groups, and some of their uses or characteristics.
Structure of the Periodic Table
- The periodic table is a chart of all known chemical elements, arranged by atomic number.
- Elements in the same group (column) have similar chemical properties.
- Each period (row) adds a new electron shell as you move from left to right.
- Electrons are added one by one across each period.
Groups and Element Types
- Noble gases (Group 18) are stable and unreactive due to full outer electron shells.
- Alkali metals (Group 1) and Halogens (Group 17) are highly reactive, often reacting with each other.
- Lanthanides and Actinides are two rows displayed below the main table, starting at elements 57 (Lanthanum) and 89 (Actinium).
Notable Elements and Their Uses
- Oxygen is essential for breathing.
- Fluorine is used in dental care for teeth.
- Neon is used in signs for lighting.
- Sodium is important for flavor (salt).
- Iron is the 26th element, vital for blood and metal production.
- Copper, silver, and gold are commonly used metals for coins and jewelry.
- Mercury is used in thermometers.
- Lead is used in various applications but can be harmful.
Arrangement and Trends
- As you move right across a period, electrons fill higher energy shells.
- The table "splits" after barium to accommodate the lanthanides and actinides.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Atomic Number — the number of protons in an atom’s nucleus; determines element order.
- Period — a horizontal row in the periodic table.
- Group — a vertical column in the periodic table.
- Noble Gas — an element in Group 18, inert and stable.
- Alkali Metal — an element in Group 1, highly reactive.
- Halogen — an element in Group 17, highly reactive nonmetals.
- Lanthanide — elements 57–71, rare earth metals.
- Actinide — elements 89–103, radioactive metals.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review the periodic table and memorize key groups and element properties.
- Study the uses and characteristics of common elements.
- Prepare for any quizzes on element names, symbols, and group characteristics.