13.

P E R I O D I C TA B L E
AND PERIODICITY

1. INTRODUCTION
You must have visited a library. There are thousands of books in a large library. In spite of this, if you ask for a
particular book, the library staff can locate it easily. How is it possible? In a library, the books are classified into various
categories and subcategories. They are arranged on the shelves accordingly. Therefore, locating the books becomes
easy. Same is the story with chemical elements. A large number of elements and compounds are known today. But a
systematic classification of these elements has made their study possible and easy. The well organized and tabulated
classification of elements, as we know it today, is called the Periodic Table. It not only helps to locate, identify and
characterize the element and its properties but also points out the directions in which new investigations are made.

2. GENESIS OF PERIODIC CLASSIFICATION

In 18th century, the number of elements was limited. In 19th century, scientists began to seek ways to classify
elements because of their rapidly increasing number. They started recognizing patterns in properties and began to
develop classification schemes. Some such early attempts of classification are described below.

2.1 Prout’s Hypothesis

The atomic weights of all elements are simple multiples of atomic weight of hydrogen. Prout gave this hypothesis
on the basis of Dalton’s atomic theory and the atomic weights of some elements known at that time. But this
hypothesis could not last longer, because there are some atomic weights which are fractional not in whole number.

2.2 Dobereiner’s Triads

It was first attempt towards classification of elements. He arranged similar elements in groups of three elements called
triad and the atomic mass of the middle elements of the triad is approximately the arithmetic mean of the other two.
Table 13.1: Example of dobereiner's triad

Triad Mean of at. Mass of (I) and (III) element

(i) Li 7
Na 23
K 39 7 + 39
= 23.00
2

(ii) Cl35.5 Br80 I127 35.5 + 127

= 81.25
2

(iii) P31 As75 Sb120 31 + 120

= 75.50
2

(iv) S32 Se79 Te127 127 + 32

= 79.50
2

(v) Ca40 Sr88 Ba137 40 + 137

= 88.50
2
1 3 . 2 | Periodic Table and Periodicity

Merits: After Dobereiner, Chemists focused on chemicals in groups having similar physical and chemical properties.

Demerits: All the known elements did not follow this rule .Law of triads was rejected as some triads nearly had
same atomic masses, e.g., (Fe, Co, Ni),(Ru, Rh, Pd),(Os, Ir, Pt)

2.3 Newland’s Rule of Octaves

When the lighter elements are arranged in order of their increasing atomic weights, then every eighth element is
similar to the first element in its properties, similarly as the eighth note of a musical scale is similar to the 1st one.
e.g. Na, 8th element resembles in their properties with Li. Similarly K, the 8th element with Na, and so on.
do re mi pha sol la si
Symbol of element Li Be B C N O F
7 9 11 12 14 16 19
Symbol of element Na Mg Al Si P S Cl
23 24 27 28 31 32 35.5
It is clear from the above table that sodium is the eighth element from lithium, whose properties resemble that of
lithium.
This type of classification was limited up to only 20 elements.

Demerits
(i) Law of octave worked quite well for lighter elements but failed with heavier elements.
(ii) Properties of elements were not taken into account and the elements were arranged in the order of their
increasing atomic masses.
(iii) No places were left for unknown elements and so, many elements occupied wrong positions. Thus, resulted
in the rejection of the attempt.

2.4 Lothar Meyer’s Volume Curve

The graphs of atomic volumes against weights are known as Lothar Meyer’s volume curves.

80
Cs

50 Rb
K
Atomic Volume, cm³

40 Ba
Na Cl Ca Sr V l
Vl
lll Br Sb Te
lV
l P S In Sn La
20
Li
ll Mg As Se ZrMo
Si Cd Nd
Al. V Fe Nb
Be Zn Ru Rn
C Co Cu
O
10 30 50 70 90 110 130 150
Atomic Mass. amu

Figure 13.1: Lothar Meyer's volume curve

 Chem i str y | 13.3

Features of curve
(a) Alkali metals having the largest atomic volumes occupy the maxima of the curve.
(b) Alkaline earth metals lie at about the mid points on the descending portions of the curve.
(c) The halogens occupy positions on ascending portions of the curve before inert gases.
(d) The transition metals occupy the minima of the curve.

Demerits: It lacked practical utility as it is not easy to remember the position of different elements on the curve.

2.5 Mendeleev’s Periodic Law

According to Mendeleev’s periodic law, the physical and chemical properties of elements are periodic functions of
their atomic weights.

Merits of Mendeleev’s periodic table

(a) Study of elements and their compounds becomes easy and systematic, as by knowing the property of one
element in a group, then the properties of the other elements present in the same group can easily be
predicted.
(b) Helps in the discovery of new elements. As Mendeleev left some blank spaces for some unknown elements
and further, predicted the properties of these elements e.g. ekaluminium, ekasilicon.
(c) Correction of doubtful atomic mass.
(d) Correction in the valency of some elements.
(e) Correction in the position of some elements.
(f) Classification of elements then known, was done for the first time and the elements having similar properties
were kept in the same group.
(g) It encouraged research and led to discovery of newer elements.
(h) Mendeleev had even predicted the properties of many elements not discovered at that time. This helped in
the discovery of these elements.
For example: Mendeleev predicted the properties of the following elements.
(i) Eka-boron - This was later called scandium (Sc)
(ii) Eka- aluminium - This was later called gallium (Ga)
(iii) Eka-silicon - This was later called germanium (Ge)

Limitations of Mendeleev’s periodic table

(a) The position of hydrogen was found to be anomalous due to its resemblance with the 1st group alkali metals
and also with the 7th group halogens in their properties.
(b) Position of isotopes: Isotopes must have different positions but they were placed in the same group.
(c) Position of isobars: They were placed in different groups.
(d) Dissimilar elements were placed together in the same group like K and Cu in 1st group.
(e) Similar elements were placed in different groups.
(f) Some higher atomic weight elements were placed before the lower atomic weight elements
(g) e.g. Ar40 precedes K39, Co58. 9 precedes Ni58.7, Te127.6 precedes I127.
(h) Position of metals and non-metals: Both were placed together in the same group.
(i) Diagonal relationship could not be explained.
1 3 . 4 | Periodic Table and Periodicity

( j) Position of lanthanides and actinides was not properly specified.

(k) No proper position to VIII group elements.
(l) There was no indication whether lanthanides and actinides were associated with group IIIA or group IIIB.
(m) Position of Isobars- These elements had different groups when mass remained the same.
(n) Lot of stress was given to the valence of elements.

2.6 Modern Periodic Law and Modern Periodic Table

Mosley: Proved that the square root of frequency (f) of the rays, which are obtained from a metal on showering
high velocity electrons is proportional to the nuclear charge of the atom.
This can be represented by the following expression.
f = a(Z-b) where Z is nuclear charge on the atom and a and b are constants.
The nuclear charge on an atom is equal to the atomic number.

Modern Periodic Table

According to modern periodic law, “The properties of elements are the periodic function of their atomic numbers”.
Period-The details about the seven periods are as follows:-
Period Atomic number Number of elements
From to
First H (1) He (2) 2
Second Li (3) Ne (10) 8
Third Na (11) Ar (18) 8
Fourth K (19) Kr (36) 18
Fifth Rb (37) Xe (54) 18
Sixth Cs (55) Rn (86) 32 (including lanthanides)
Seventh Fr (87) Ha (105) 19 (including actinides)

Group: The modern periodic table has 18 vertical columns and according to CAS system there are 16 groups
having the following number of elements.
Group Number of Elements
(a) I A group 7 (H, Li, Na, K Rb, Cs, Fr) Alkali metals
(b) II A group 6 (Be, Mg, Ca, Sr, Ba, Ra) Alkaline earth metals
(c) III A group 5 (B, Al, Ga, In, Tl) Boron family
(d) IV A group 5 (C, Si, Ge, Sn, Pb) Carbon family
(e) V A group 5 (N, P, As, Sb, Bi) Nitrogen family
(f) VI A group 5 (O, S, Se, Te, Po) Oxygen family (Chalcogen)
(g) VII A group 5 (F, Cl, Br, I, At) Halogen family
(h) Zero group 6 (He, Ne, Ar, Kr, Xe, Rn) Inert elements
32 (Sc, Y, La, Ac & 14 lanthanide elements & 14 actinide elements.)
(i) III B group These are elements of IIIB group, which could not be accommodated in one
column and therefore written separately outside the periodic table.
 Chem i str y | 13.5

( j) IV B group 4 (Ti, Zr, Hf, Rf)

(k) V B group 4 (V, Nb, Ta, Db)
(l) VI B group 3 (Cr, Mo, W)
(m) VII B group 3 (Mn, Tc, Re)
(n) VIII (3) group 9 (Fe, Co, Ni, Ru, Rh, Pd, Os, Ir, Pt)
(o) I B group 3 (Cu, Ag, Au)
(p) II B group 3 (Zn, Cd, Hg)

Advantages of the Long Form of the Periodic Table

(a) The table is based on a more fundamental property i.e. atomic number.
(b) It correlates the position of elements with their electronic configuration more clearly.
(c) The completion of each period is more logical. In a period, as the atomic number increases, the energy shells
are gradually filled up until an inert gas configuration is reached.
(d) It eliminates the even and odd series of IV, V and VI periods of Mendeleev’s periodic table.
(e) The position of VIII group is also justified in this table. All the transition elements have been brought to the
middle as the properties of transition elements are intermediate between s-and p-block elements.
(f) Due to the separation of two sub-groups, dissimilar elements do not fall together. One vertical column
accommodates elements with same electronic configuration thereby showing same properties.
(g) The table completely separates metals and non-metals. Non-metals are present in upper right corner of the
periodic table.
(h) There is a gradual change in properties of the elements with increase in their atomic numbers i.e., periodicity
of properties can be easily visualized. The same properties occur after the intervals of 2, 8, 8, 18, 18 and 32
elements which indicates the capacity of various periods of the table.
(i) The greatest advantage of this periodic table is that this can be divided into four blocks namely s-, p-, d- and
f-block elements.
( j) This arrangement of elements is easy to remember and reproduce.

Defects of the Long Form of the Periodic Table

(a) The position of hydrogen is still disputable as it was there in MENDELEEV periodic table in group IA as well
as IVA & VIIA.
(b) Helium is an inert gas but its configuration is different from that of the other inert gas elements
(c) Lanthanide and actinide series could not be adjusted in the main periodic table and therefore they had to be
provided with a place separately below the table.

To Locate Group and Period if Atomic Number is given

Locate period: Write electronic configuration of each element for which the atomic number is given. The number
of outermost shell suggests the period to which it belongs in the periodic table.

Locate it’s Block and Group

Group can be located after knowing the block of an element as follows:
For s-block elements,
gp. no. = No. of s-electrons in valence shell
1 3 . 6 | Periodic Table and Periodicity

For p-block elements,

gp. no. = No. of s-electrons + p-electrons in valence shell + 10
For d-block elements,
gp. no. = No. of (n – 1)d + ns electrons

Illustration 1: How many elements from the following atomic number are p-block elements?
83, 79, 42, 64, 37, 54 34
Use the following data for predicting answer – (Atomic Number of noble gases are given in the bracket)
 (JEE MAIN)
He[2] Ne[10] Ar[18] Kr[36]
Xe[54] Rn[86]

Sol: 83 – p-block Xe54 6s2 5d10 4f14 6p3

79 – d-block Xe54 6s1 4f14 5d10
42 – d-block Kr36 5s1 4d5
64 – f-block Xe54 6s2 5d1 4f7
37 – s-block Kr36 5s1
54 – p-block Xe
34 – p-block Ar18 4s2 3d10 4p4

Illustration 2: (a) Write the electronic configuration of the elements given below:
A (At. No. = 9), B (At. No. = 12), C (At. No. = 29), D (At. No. = 54) and E (At. No. = 58)
(b) Also predict the period, group number and block to which they belong. (JEE MAIN)

Sol: (a) Electronic configuration of the element A, B, C, D and E are as follows:

Element At. No. Electronic configuration
A 9 1s2 2s2 2p5
B 12 1s2 2s2 2p6 3s2
C 29 1s2 2s2 2p6 3s2 3p6 3d10 4s1
D 54 1s2 2s2 2p6 3s2 3p6 3d10 4s2 4p6 4d10 5s2 5p6
E 58 1s2 2s2 2p6 3s2 3p6 3d10 4s2 4p6 4d10 5s2 5p6 6s2 5d1 4f1

(b) Element A: Receives the last electron in 2p-orbital, therefore, it belongs to p-block.
Group number = 10+ No. of electrons in the valence shell = 10 + 7 = 17.
Period =Principal quantum number of the valence shell = 2nd.

Element B: Receives the last electron in 3s-orbital, thus, it belongs to s-block.

Group number = No. of electrons in the valence shell=2
Period = Principal quantum number of the valence shell = 3rd

Element C: Receives the last electron in the 3d-orbital, thus, it belongs to d-block.
Group number = No. of electrons (penultimate shell +valence shell) = 10 + 1 = 11
Period = Principal quantum number of the valence shell = 4th
 Chem i str y | 13.7

Element D: Receives its last electron in the 5p-orbital, thus, it belongs to p-block.
Group number = 10 + No. of electrons in the valence shell = 10 + 8 = 18
Period of the element =Principal quantum number of the valence shell = 5th

Element E: Receives its last electron in the 4f-orbital, thus, it belongs to f-block
It may be noted here, that, the filling of 4f-orbital occurs only when one electron has already entered the 5d-orbital.
Therefore, element E belongs to f-block and not to d-block. Since it belongs to lanthanide series, there is no such
group number of its own but is usually considered to lie in group 3.
Period = Principal quantum number of the valence shell = 6th.
Illustration 3: Elements A, B, C, D and E have the following electronic configurations.
A: 1s2 2s2 2p1 B: 1s2 2s2 2p6 3s2 3p1 C: 1 s2 2s2 2p6 3s2 3p3
D: 1s2 2s2 2p6 3s2 3p5 E: 1s2 2s2 2p6 3s2 3p6 4s2
Which among these will belong to the same group in the periodic table?  (JEE ADVANCED)

Sol: We know that elements having similar valence electronic configuration belong to the same group of the
periodic table. Therefore, elements A and B having three electrons in the valence shell, i.e. 2s2 2p1 and 3s2 3p1
respectively belong to the same group, i.e., group 13 of the periodic table.

3. NAMING OF ELEMENTS HAVING ATOMIC NUMBER GREATER

THAN 100
(a) The name is derived directly from the atomic number of the elements using the following numerical roots:

Table 13.2: Naming of elements having atomic number greater than 100

Digit Name Abbreviation

0 nil n
1 un u
2 bi b
3 tri t
4 quad q
5 pent p
6 hex h
7 sept s
8 oct o
9 oct e

(b) The roots are put together in the order of the digits which make up the atomic number and are terminated
by ‘ium’ to spell out the name. The final ‘n’ of ‘enn’ is removed when it occurs before ‘nil’ and the final ‘i’ of ‘bi’
and of ‘tri’ when it occurs before ‘ium’
(c) The symbol of the element is composed of the initial letters of the numerical roots which make up the name.
1 3 . 8 | Periodic Table and Periodicity

Illustration 4: Eka-aluminium and eka-silicon were the names given by Mendeleev for the unknown elements
gallium and germanium respectively. A recently discovered element was first named as eka-mercury. What is its
atomic number? Write its group number, electronic configuration, IUPAC name. (JEE MAIN)

Sol: The element which comes after mercury in the periodic table is called eka-mercury. Its various parameters are:
Z = 80 + 32 = 112 IUPAC name: Uub
Official name Cn(copernicium) E.C. = [Rn] 5f14 8d10 7s2

4. CLASSIFICATION OF PERIODIC TABLE BASED ON BLOCKS

s-block Elements: Elements of groups 1 and 2 including He in which the last electron enters the s-orbitals of the
valence shell are called s-block elements. There are only 14 s-block elements in the periodic table.

Characteristics:
(a) The electronic configuration of outermost shell of s-block elements is ns1 (alkali metals; group1) or ns2 (alkaline
earth metals; group 2)
(b) The valence of group I elements is +1 and those of group II elements is +2.
(c) These are soft metals having low melting points and boiling points.
(d) Most of these form ionic compounds on account of their lower ionization energy.
(e) Most of these metals (except Be & Mg) and their salts imparts characteristic colour to the flame e.g., sodium
imparts a golden yellow colour; potassium imparts violet colour to the flame.
(f) These are highly reactive elements and are strong reducing agents.
(g) All are good conductors of heat and electricity.

p-block Elements: Elements of groups 13-18 in which the last electron enters the p-orbitals of the valence shell
are called p-block elements.

Characteristics:
(a) The electronic configuration of the outermost shell of p-block elements (group 13, 14, 15, 16, 17 and 18) is
ns2 np1-6.
(b) These elements include metals and non-metals with a few metalloids. The metallic character, however,
decreases along the period but increases down the group.
(c) These possess relatively higher ionization energy which tends to increase along the period but decreases
down the group.
(d) Most of them form covalent compounds.
(e) Most of these elements show negative (except some metals) as well as positive oxidation states (except F).
(f) The oxidizing power of these elements increases along the period but decreases down the group.

d-Block Elements: There are three complete series and one incomplete series of d-block elements. These are: 1st
or 3d-transition series which contains ten elements with atomic number 21-30 (21Sc-30Zn).

2nd or 4d-transition series which contains ten elements with atomic numbers 39-48(39Y-48Cd).
3rd or 5d transition series which contains ten elements with atomic numbers 57 and 72-80

(57La, 72Hf-80Hg).4th or 6d transition series which is incomplete at present and contains only nine elements. These are
 Chem i str y | 13.9

89
Ac, 104Rf, 105Ha, Unh (Seaborgium, Z = 106), 107Bh (Bohrium), 108Hs (Hassium), 109Mt (Meitnerium), Ds (Darmstadtium,
Z= 110) and Cn (Copernicium, Z = 112) or Ekamercury. The element, Z = 111 has not been discovered yet. Thus, in
all, there are 39 d-block elements.

Characteristics:
(a) The electronic configuration of outermost shell of d-block elements is ns0–2 followed with (n–1) s2p6d1–10.
(b) All (except Hg) are hard, ductile metals with high melting and boiling points.
(c) All of these are good conductors of heat and electricity.
(d) Their ionization energies are higher than s-block elements but lesser than p-block elements.
(e) Most of the transition metals form coloured ions (Zn2+, Hg2+, Cd2+ are colourless.)
(f) These elements show variable oxidation states.
(g) Most of these elements possess catalytic activity.
(h) Metals and their ions are generally paramagnetic due to the presence of unpaired electrons.
(i) Most of the transition metal ions possess the tendency to form complex ions.
( j) Most transition metals form alloys.

f -block Elements: f-Block elements are also called inner-transition elements. In these elements, the f-subshell
of the inner-penultimate is progressively filled up. There are two series of f-block elements each containing
14 elements. The fourteen elements from 58Ce - 71Lu in which, 4f-subshell is progressively filled up are called
lanthanides or rare elements. Similarly, the fourteen elements from 90Th – 103Lr in which, 5f-subshell is progressively
filled up are called actinides.

Characteristics:
(a) The electronic configuration of outermost shell of f-block elements is ns2, followed with (n–2)f1–14, (n–1) d0–2.
(b) All are metals.
(c) Lanthanoids are also known as rare earth elements whereas most of the members of actinoid series are
known as transuranic elements (made artificially).
(d) These show variable valency.
(e) These form coloured ions.
(f) Actinoids are radioactive.
(g) These also form complexes.

5. POSITION OF METALS AND NON METALS IN PERIODIC TABLE

Metals, Non Metals and Metalloids in Periodic Table

(a) Trends in metallic character in Periodic table
(i) The metallic character increases down the group and decreases along the period.
(ii) The non-metallic character decreases down the group and increases along the period.
Note: All the non-metals and metalloids belong to p-block (except H and He).
1 3 . 1 0 | Periodic Table and Periodicity

6. EFFECTIVE NUCLEAR CHARGE AND SHIELDING

In a polyelectronic atom, the internal electrons repel the electrons of the outermost orbit. This results in the
decrease in the nuclear attraction on the electrons of the outermost orbit.
Therefore, only a part of the nuclear charge is effective on the electrons of the outermost orbit. Thus, the inner
electrons protect or shield the nucleus and thereby decrease the effect of nuclear charge towards the electrons of
the outermost orbit.
Thus, part of the nuclear charge works against outer electrons, and is known as effective nuclear charge Z* = Z – S
Z* = effective nuclear charge, S = shielding constant and Z = nuclear charge
A scientist named Slater, determined the value of shielding constant and put forward some rules which are listed
below:
 1. The shielding effect or screening effect of each electron of 1s orbital is 0.30.
 2. The shielding effect of each electrons of ns and np i.e. electron of the outermost orbit, is 0.35.
 3. The shielding effect of each electron of s, p or d orbitals of the penultimate orbit (n – 1) is 0.85.
 4. The shielding effect of each electron of s, p, d or f orbital of the inner penultimate orbit
(n – 2) and below this is 1.0

Table 13.3: Z* for II period elements

Calculation of
Atomic 349
Element [0.35 ×No. of nth [0.85×No. of [1.0×No. Z* = Z– S
number electrons)-1] of inner 35.3
(n–1)th electrons]
electrons]
Li 3 — 0.85 × 2 — 1.70 1.30
Be 4 0.35 × 1 0.85 × 2 — 2.05 1.95
B 5 0.35 × 2 0.85 × 2 — 2.40 2.60
C 6 0.35 × 3 0.85 × 2 — 2.75 3.25
N 7 0.35 × 4 0.85 × 2 — 3.10 3.90
O 8 0.35 × 5 0.85 × 2 — 3.45 4.55
F 9 0.35 × 6 0.85 × 2 — 3.80 5.20
Ne 10 0.35 × 7 0.85 × 2 — 4.15 5.85

Illustration 5: What is the screening constant for the last electron in Sc?  (JEE MAIN)

Sol: 1s2 2s2 2p6 3s2 3p6 3d1 4s2

Last electron is in 4s orbital.
The shielding effect for one electron of 4s = 0.35
Electrons of 3rd shell = 9; their contribution = 9 × 0.85
Contribution of 2nd and 1st shell = 10 × 1
Total = 0.35 + 9 × 0.85 + 10 × 1 = 18
349
= 18
35.3
z* = z – S = 21 – 18 = 3
 Chem i str y | 13.11

7. TRENDS IN PHYSICAL PROPERTIES

7.1 Atomic Radius

It refers to the distance between the centre of the nucleus of the atom to the outermost shell containing electrons.
Since absolute value of the atomic size cannot be determined, it is usually expressed in terms of the following
operational definitions.

(a) Covalent Radius

(i) Normally, this term is used for non-metals. d
(ii) It is defined as half of the distance between two successive nuclei of two covalently
(iii) bonded atoms in a molecule.
1
Covalent radius = × Internuclear distance between two covalently bonded like
atom(d) 2
A B
In other words, covalent radius is the radius of a spherical atom that leads to observed Figure 13.2-a:
bond lengths when the spheres are just touching each other. Diagrammatic
Covalent radius may be of following types representation of
covalent radius
Single bond covalent radius
Double bond covalent radius

(b) Vander Waals Radius

(i) Van der Waals radius is defined as half of the internuclear separation of two non-bonded atoms of the
same element on their closest possible approach. The term is used for non- metals (covalent compound)
and noble gases.
(ii) It is half of the distance between two successive nuclei of two covalently bonded molecules of like atoms
or two successive molecules of inert gases.

Figure 13.2-b: Diagrammatic representation of vander waal radius

1
Vander Waals radius = × Internuclear distance between two successive nuclei of two covalent molecules (d)
2

(c) Crystal Radius or Metallic Radius

(i) The term is usually used for metals. Radius of Radius of
cation antion
(ii) It is defined as half of the distance between two successive nuclei of two
adjacent metal atoms in the metallic closed packed crystal lattice.
cation

Anion

(d) Ionic Radius

(i) This term is used in case of ions.
Internuclear
(ii) It is the distance of outermost shell of an anion or cation from its nucleus. distance
In other words, it is defined as the effective distance from the nucleus of Figure 13.2-c: Diagrammatic
the ion which is under influence in an ionic bond. representation of ionic radius
1 3 . 1 2 | Periodic Table and Periodicity

PLANCESS CONCEPTS
It is evident that van der Waals radius is greater than Covalent radius of an atom because Vander Waals
forces of attraction are weaker than covalent bond forces.
Vaibhav Krishnan JEE 2009, AIR 22

Trends of Atomic Radius

(a) Along the period: On moving across a period, atomic radii decreases because effective nuclear charge
increases.
(b) Down the group: On moving down a group, atomic radii increases, because number of orbits increases.

Factors Affecting Atomic Radii

(a) Effective nuclear charge: As the effective nuclear charge increases, the attractive force between nucleus and
valence electron increases. Thus, across a period, atomic size/atomic radii decreases.
1
So, Atomic radii ∝
Z eff

(b) Size of valence shell: Atomic radii is the measure of radius of valence shell. As the value of n (principal
quantum no.) increases, for an orbit, its size increases, thus down a group, atomic radii increases.
(c) Multiplicity of bond: Covalent radii decreases, as the multiplicity of bond increases.
For example, in case of carbon
C – C C = C ∆ A −B
Dc—c (Å) 1.54 1.34 1.20
rc (Å) 0.77 0.67 0.60

(d) Percentage ionic character in bond: Covalent radii of an atom in a bond depends upon % of ionic character.
Increase in ionic character % leads in shortening of bond, decreasing the atomic radii.
(e) Cationic Radii: Size of cation is always lesser than its parent atom and greater the charge on cation, smaller
is its ionic radii. E.g. Fe > Fe+ > Fe2+ > Fe3+ (decreasing ionic radii)
Formation of cation involves loss of electron. Thus, effective nuclear charge increases, pulling the remaining
electrons more tightly towards the nucleus.
(f) Anionic Radii: Size of an anion is always larger than its parent atom. Formation of an anion involves gain
of electrons by an atom and so, effective nuclear charge decreases. Thus, the valence shell electrons are less
tightly held by the nucleus.

PLANCESS CONCEPTS

Lanthanide contraction also plays an important role in deciding the trends of atomic radii accounting for
the similar atomic radii of palladium and Pt.
Nikhil Khandelwal JEE 2009, AIR 94
 Chem i str y | 13.13

Illustration 6: Which one of the following pairs would have a large size? Explain.
(i) K or K+ (ii) Br or Br– (iii) O2– or F– (iv) Li+ or Na+ (v) P or As (vi) Na+ or Mg2+
 (JEE MAIN)
Sol:
(i) Due to higher effective nuclear charge, K+ has smaller atomic size than K.
(ii) Due to lower effective nuclear charge, the size of Br– is greater than that of Br.
(iii) O2– and F– are isoelectronic species. Since effective nuclear charge of O2– is lower than that of
F–, therefore, O2– has a greater atomic size than F–.
(iv) Li+ and Na+ both belong to group 1. Because of a greater number of shells (2, in case of Na+
and 1, in case of Li+), Na+ has a bigger atomic size than Li+.
(v) As has four shells while P has three. Therefore, atomic size of As is greater than that of P.
(vi) Na+ and Mg2+ are isoelectronic cations. Therefore, due to lower effective nuclear charge, the ionic radius of
Na+ is greater than that of Mg2+.

Illustration 7: Arrange the following in order of increasing radii?

(i) I, I+, I– (ii) C, N, Si, P (iii) O2–, N3–, S2– F–  (JEE MAIN)

Sol: The size of a neutral, positive and negative species is compared.

(i) Size of a cation is always smaller while that of an anion is always bigger than the neutral atom, i.e. I+ < I < I–
(ii) C and N lie in 2nd period while Si and P lie below them in the 3rd period. Since elements in the 3th period have
higher atomic size than those in the 2nd period. Therefore, atomic radii of Si and P are higher than those of C
and N respectively. Since, atomic radii decreases across a period due to higher nuclear charge, therefore, C
has higher atomic radius than N and Si has higher atomic radius than P. Thus, the overall order of increasing
atomic radii is: N < C < P < Si.
(iii) Among isoelectronic ions, the size of anions increases as the nuclear charge decreases: F– < O2– < N3– < S2–.

Illustration 8: Select from each group the species which has the smallest radius stating appropriate reasons.
(i) O, O–, O2– (ii) P3+, P4+, P5+  (JEE ADVANCED)

Sol: Ionic radius decrease on loss of electrons since the nuclear charge increases.
(i) O has the smallest radius. The anion is larger than its parent atom. Also, the anion of the same atom with
higher negative charge is bigger in size as compared to the anion with smaller negative charge as proton to
electron ratio decreases. Thus, attraction between valence shell electrons and nucleus decreases. Hence, the
electron cloud expands.
(ii) The ionic radius decreases as more electrons are ionized off .Thus, valency increases. So, the correct order is
P5+ < P4+ < P3+.

Illustration 9: Arrange the following ions in the increasing order of their size: Be2+, Cl–, S2–, Na+, Mg2+, Br– ?
 (JEE ADVANCED)
1
Sol: Ionic radius ∝
Nuclear charge

Be2+ < Mg2+ < Na+ < Cl− < S2− < Br −

Be2+ is smaller than Mg2+ ,as, Be2+ has one shell whereas, Mg2+ has two shells. Mg2+ and Na+ are isoelectronic
species.
Cl− is smaller than Br − as Cl− .has three shells whereas Br − has four shells.
1 3 . 1 4 | Periodic Table and Periodicity

PLANCESS CONCEPTS

• In isoelectronic ions, size decreases with increase in atomic number.

For e.g. N3− > O2− > F− > Na+ > Mg2+ > Al3+
Although, Ne is also isoelectronic to them but its atomic radius is 1.60Å. It should not be compared
to other radii because noble gases do not form ionic compounds and their radii are simply Van der
Waals radii.
• In the end of the period, the atomic radii of inert gases are exceptionally higher because
they do not form molecules and their radii are simply Van der Waals radii.

Saurabh Gupta JEE 2010, AIR 443

7.2 Ionization Potential

It is the amount of energy required to remove the most loosely bound electron from an isolated gaseous atom i.e.

M ( g) + IE → M+ ( g) + e−

The amount of energies required to remove the first, second, third etc. electrons from an Isolated gaseous atom
are called successive ionization energies and are designated as IE1, IE2,
IE3 etc. It may be noted that IE2 is always greater than IE1 .Thus, the order is- IE3 > IE2 > IE1

PLANCESS CONCEPTS

The removal of a second electron is relatively more difficult because after the removal of the first electron,
remaining electrons in the cation are more effectively pulled by the nucleus due to increased effective
nuclear charge, thus, IE3 > IE2 > IE1
Neeraj Toshniwal (JEE 2009, AIR 21)

Factors affecting Ionisation Potential

(a) Number of shells: With the increase in the number of shells, the atomic radius increases i.e. the distance of
outermost shell electron from the nucleus increases and hence the ionization potential decreases.
(b) Effective Nuclear Charge: Atomic size decreases with the increase in effective nuclear charge because,
higher the effective nuclear charge, stronger will be the attraction of the nucleus towards the electron of the
outermost orbit and higher will be the ionization potential.
(c) Shielding Effect: The electrons of the inner orbits repel the electrons of the outermost orbit due to which
the attraction of the nucleus towards the electrons of the outermost orbit decreases and thus the atomic size
increases and the value of ionization potential decreases.

(
3 5 7
)
(d) Stability of half-filled and fully filled orbitals: The atoms whose orbitals are half-filled p ,d ,f or fully-
( )
filled s2 ,p6 ,d10 ,f14 have greater stability than the other. Therefore, they require greater energy to remove
an electron. However, stability of fully filled orbitals is greater than that of the half-filled orbitals.
(e) Penetration power: In any atom, the s-orbital is nearer to the nucleus in comparison to p, and f orbitals.
Therefore, greater energy is required to remove an electron from s-orbital than from p, d and f orbitals. The
order is as follows- s > p > d > f
 Chem i str y | 13.15

Periodic Trends in Ionisation Potential

In a Period: The value of ionization potential normally increase across a period, because effective nuclear charge
increases and the atomic size decreases.

Exceptions: In the second period, ionization potential of Be is greater than that of B, and in the third period,
ionization potential of Mg is greater than that of Al due to the high stability of fully filled orbitals. In the second
period, ionization potential of N is greater than O and in the third period, ionization potential of P is greater than
that of S, due to the stability of half-filled orbitals.

In a Group: The value of ionization potential normally decreases down the group because both, atomic size and
shielding effect increase.

Exception: The value of ionization potential remains almost constant from Al to Ga in the III A group. (B > Al, Ga > In).
In IV B group i.e. Ti, Zr and Hf, the I.P. of Hf is higher than that of Zr due to Lanthanide contraction. Thus the I.P. of
IV B group varies as Ti > Zr < Hf.

Ionisation Potential of Transition Elements: In transition elements, the value of ionization potential has
changes very little across a period. This is because, the outermost orbit remains the same but electrons get filled
up in the (n-1)d orbitals resulting in very little increase in the values of ionization potential.

In transition element series, the first ionization potential normally increases with increase in atomic number on
going from left to right, but this periodicity is not uniform. The value of ionization potential of transition elements
depends on two important factors-
(a) The value of ionization potential increases with increase in effective nuclear charge.
(b) The value of ionization potential decreases with increase in shielding effect when number of electrons increase
in (n – 1) orbitals.
(i) In the first transition element series, the first ionization potential normally increases on going from left
to right from Sc to Cr because shielding effect is much weaker in comparison to effective nuclear charge.
The value of first ionisation potential of Fe, Co and Ni remains constant, because shielding effect and
effective nuclear charge balance each other. The value of ionization potential shows a slight increase
from Cu to Zn because they have fully filled s and d orbitals. The value of first ionisation potential of Mn
is maximum because it has maximum stability due to fully filled s and half-filled orbitals.

Inner Transition Elements: The size of inner transition elements is greater than that of d block elements. Therefore,
the value of ionization potential of f- block elements is smaller than that of d- block elements. Due to the almost
constant atomic size of f- block elements in a period, the value of their ionisation potential remains more constant
than that of d- block elements.

PLANCESS CONCEPTS
Ionization energy and the stable oxidation states of elements:
(i)  hen difference in two successive IE values ( ∆2 ) for an atom is approximately 10-15 eV or less,
W
then, the higher ox. state will be more stable.
E.g.
For Al, I.E1 = 6.0 eV. I.E2 = 18.8 eV,
I.E3 = 28.4 eV and I.E4 = 120 eV,
Then, for Al(II); ∆I.E.(1.2) =
12.8 eV
  Al (III); ∆ I.E.( 2.3) =
9.6 eV
  Al (IV); ∆ I.E.(3.4 ) =91.6 eV
1 3 . 1 6 | Periodic Table and Periodicity

PLANCESS CONCEPTS

So, Al (III) is more stable than Al (I) or Al (II).

(ii) If the value of ∝ is greater than 16.0 eV, then, the lower ox. state will be more stable.
E.g., For Na, I.E.1 = 5.1 eV; I.E2 = 47.3 eV
∴ ∆ IE(1.2) = 42.4 eV
So, Na(I) is formed and not Na(II).
Aman Gour JEE 2012, AIR 203

Illustration 10: Calculate the energy required to convert all the atoms of magnesium to magnesium ions present
in 24 mg of magnesium vapours? First and second ionization enthalpies of Mg are 737.76 and 1450.73 kJ mol–1
respectively. (JEE MAIN)

Sol: According to the definition of successive ionization enthalpies,

Mg ( g) + ∆iH1 → Mg+ ( g) + e− ( g) ; ∆iH1 =

737.76 kJ mol−1

Mg+ ( g) + ∆iH2 → Mg2+ ( g) + e− ( g) ; 1450.73 kJ mol−1

∆iH2 =

∆ Total amount of energy needed to convert Mg (g) atom into Mg2+(g) ion = ∆iH1 + ∆iH2
= (737.76 + 1450.73) kJ m = 2188.49 kJ mol–1
24 24
24 mg of Mg = g= mole = 10–3 mole
1000 1000 × 24
Therefore, amount of energy needed to ionize 10–3 mole of Mg vapours = 2188.49 × 10–3 = 2.188 kJ.

Illustration 11: The ∆iH1 and ∆iH2 of Mg(g) are 740 and 1450 kJ mol–1. Calculate the percentage of Mg+(g) and
Mg2+ (g) if 1 g of Mg(g) absorbs 50 kJ of energy. (JEE MAIN)

Sol: ∆iH1 and ∆iH2 is the ionization enthalpy i.e. heat energy used to remove the loosely bound electron.
No. of moles of Mg vapours present in 1 g = 1/24 = 0.0417
Energy absorbed in the ionization of 0.0417 mole of Mg(g) to Mg+(g) = 0.0417 × 740
= 30.83 kJ; Energy left unused = 50 – 30.83 = 19.17 kJ
Now, 19.17 kJ will be used to ionize Mg+(g) to Mg2+(g)

Na Mg Al No. of moles of Mg+(g) converted into Mg2+(g) = 19.17/1450 = 0.0132


Metals

No. of moles of magnesium ions left as Mg+(g) = 0.0417–0.0132 = 0.0285

Si % of Mg+(g) = (0.0285/0.0417) × 100 = 68.35% and % of Mg2+(g) = 100 – 68.38 = 31.65%

Metalloid

Illustration 12: The first ( ∆iH1 ) and the second ( ∆iH2 ) ionization enthalpies (kJ mol–1) of a few elements designated
by Roman numerals are shown below: (JEE ADVANCED)
Element ∆iH1 ∆iH2
I 2372 5251
II 520 7300
 Chem i str y | 13.17

III 900 1760

IV 1680 3380
Which of the above elements is likely to be (a) a reactive metal (b) a reactive non-metal (c) a noble gas (d) a metal
that forms a stable binary halide of the formula AX2(X = halogen).

Sol:
(i) Since Element II has a very low ∆iH1 but a very high ∆iH2, therefore, it has only one electron in the valence shell
and hence is likely to be a reactive metal (i.e., an alkali metal).
(ii) Since the ΔiH1 of Element IV is very high and its ∆iH2 is not so high (actually almost double), IV is likely to be
a reactive non-metal (i.e. a halogen).
(iii) Among the elements listed, ∆iH1 of element I is the highest and its, ∆iH2 is also not so high, therefore, it must
be a noble gas.
(iv) The ∆iH1 of element III is higher than that of element II, but unlike element II, its ∆iH2 is only about twice its
∆iH1, therefore, it is likely that element III has two electrons in the valence shell (i.e., alkaline earth metal). As
such it will form a stable binary halide of the formula AX2 where A is the metal and X is the halogen.

Illustration 13: From each set, choose the atom which has the largest ionization enthalpy and explain your answer.
(i) F, O, N (ii) Mg, P Ar (iii) B, Al, Ga (JEE MAIN)

Sol: Largest ionization enthalpy is the highest amount of energy needed to remove the valence electron due to a
stronger nuclear charge and a smaller atomic size.
(i) F, O, N-All belong to 2nd period. Among these, F has the highest ∆iH1 because of its smallest size and highest
nuclear charge.
(ii) Mg P, Ar-All lie in the 3rd period. Among these, Ar has the highest ∆iH1 because it has stable inert gas
configuration.
(iii) B, Al, Ga-All lie in group 13. B has the highest ∆iH1 due to its smallest size.

Illustration 14: Compare qualitatively the first and second ionization potentials of copper and zinc. Explain the
observation. (JEE ADVANCED)

Sol:
IE1 kJ mol–1 IE2 kJ mol–2
Cu 744 1961
Zn 906 1736

IE1 of copper is less than that of zinc, because removal of electron takes place from 4s1 (attaining a more stable
configuration 3d10) whereas, in case of zinc, it is from completely filled 4s2 (attaining the configuration 4s1)
IE2 of copper is higher than zinc, because the removal of 2nd electron from a stable configuration (d10) requires
higher energy.

Illustration 15: The first four successive ionization energies for an element are (6.113, 11.871, 50.908, 67.01)
respectively. What is the number of valence shell electrons?  (JEE ADVANCED)

Sol: The difference in second and third ionization is very large. Therefore, the no. of valence shell electrons should
be 2. The element would attain the noble gas configuration after losing these 2 electrons.
1 3 . 1 8 | Periodic Table and Periodicity

7.3 Electron Affinity

It is the amount of energy released when a neutral isolated gaseous atom accepts an electron to form a gaseous
anion.
X (g) + E → X– (g) + EA
Similarly, second and third electron can be added to form gaseous dinegative and trinegative ions. The energy
changes accompanying the addition of first, second, third etc. electrons to neutral isolated gaseous atoms are
called successive electron affinities and are designated as EA1, EA2, EA3, etc.
Since an atom has a natural tendency to accept an electron, therefore, the first electron affinity (EA1) is always
taken as positive. However, the addition of second electron to the negatively charged ion is opposed by coulombic
repulsion. Hence, energy has to be supplied for the addition of second electron.
Thus, second electron affinity (EA2) of an element is taken as negative.
For example,
O(g) + e– → O–(g); EA1 = + 141 kJ mol–1 −141 kJ/mol
∆HEA =
1
O–(g) + e– → O2–(g) ; EA2 = – 780 kJ mol–1 ∆HEA =
+780 kJ/mol
2

Factors Affecting Electron Affinity

Atomic size or atomic radius: When the atomic size/radius increases, the electrons entering the outermost orbit
is more weakly attracted by the nucleus and the value of electron affinity is lower.

Effective Nuclear charge: When effective nuclear charge is more, then, the atomic size is less. Then, the atom can
easily gain an electron and possess a higher value of electron affinity.

Stability of Fully-Filled and Half-Filled orbitals: The stability of the configuration having fully-filled orbitals (p6,
d10f14) and half—filled orbitals (p3, d5, f7) is relatively higher than that of other configurations. Hence, such type of
atoms have a lesser tendency to gain an electron, therefore, their electron affinity values will be very low or zero.

Trends in Electron Affinity: In a period, atomic size decreases with the increase in effective nuclear charge and
hence, increases the electron affinity.

Exception:
(a) Ongoing from C6 to N7 in the second period, the values of electron affinity decrease instead of increasing. This
is because there are half-filled (2p3) orbitals in the outermost orbit of N, which are more stable. On the other
hand, the outermost orbit in C has a 2p2 configuration.
(b) In the third period, the value of electron affinity of Si is greater than that of P. This is because the electronic
configuration of the outermost orbit in P atom is 3p3, which being half-filled, is relatively more stable. The
values of electron affinity of inert gases are zero, because their outermost orbit has fully-filled p orbitals.
(c) In a period, the value of electron affinity goes on decreasing on going from group IA to group IIA. The value
of electron affinity of the elements of group IIA is zero because ns orbitals are fully-filled and such orbitals
have no tendency to accept electrons.

In a Group: The values of electron affinity normally decrease down a group because the atomic size increases,
decreasing the actual attractive force of the nucleus.

Exceptions:
(a) The value of the electron affinity of F is lower than that of Cl, because the size of F is very small and compact
and the charge density is high on the surface. Therefore, the incoming electron/s experience more repulsion
in comparison to Cl accounting for the highest value of Cl in the periodic table.
 Chem i str y | 13.19

(b) The values of electron affinity of alkali metals and alkaline earth metals can be regarded as zero, because they
do not have the tendency to form anions by accepting electron/s.

PLANCESS CONCEPTS

(a) Cl has the highest electron affinity (3.7)

(b) Higher the EA of an element, easier is the addition of an electron.
(c) Following are some important observations derived from the general trend of electron affinity:
(i) More the tendency to gain an electron, more is the non-metallic nature. Therefore,
non-metallic nature increases along the period but decreases down the group.
(ii) More the tendency to form an anion, more is the tendency to show ionic bonding. Therefore,
tendency of non- metals to show ionic bonding increases along the period but decreases
down the group.
(iii) More the tendency to get reduced, more is the oxidizing nature. Therefore, oxidizing power
increases along the period but decreases down the group
Order of Oxidizing power- F > Cl > Br > I.
B Rajiv Reddy JEE 2012, AIR 11

Illustration 16: The electron gain enthalpy of chlorine is –349 kJ mol–1. How much energy in kJ is released when
3.55 g of chlorine is converted completely into Cl– ion in the gaseous state? (JEE MAIN)

Sol: According to the definition of electron gain enthalpy, Cl(g) + e–(g) → Cl–(g)+349 kJ mol–1
C ≡ C Energy released when 1 mole (=35.5 g) of chlorine atoms change completely into Cl–(g) = 349 kJ
349
Energy released when 3.55 g of chlorine atoms change completely into Cl–=
(g) × 3.55 = 34.9 kJ
35.3

Illustration 17: Which of the following pairs of elements would have more negative electron gain enthalpy? Explain
(i) N or O (ii) S or O (iii) C or Si (JEE ADVANCED)

Sol: (i) The electron gain enthalpy of O is highly negative while that of N is slightly positive.

Reason: The electronic configuration of N is quite stable (1s2 2s2 2px1 2py1 2pz1) since it has exactly half-filled
2p-orbitals and hence has no tendency to accept an extra electron. In other words, energy has to be supplied to
add an extra electron. Thus, electron-gain enthalpy of N is slightly positive. In contrast, the electronic configuration
of O (1s2 2s2 2px2 2py1 2pz1) is not so stable but it has a higher nuclear charge and smaller atomic size than N and
hence, it has a higher tendency to accept an extra electron. In other words, electron gain enthalpy of O is highly
negative.
(ii) S has more negative electron gain enthalpy than O.
Reason: The size of O is much smaller than that of S. As a result, the electron-electron repulsions in the smaller
2p-subshell of O are comparatively more than those present in the bigger 3p-subshell of S. Therefore, S has a
higher tendency to accept an additional electron than O.
(iii) C has a more negative electron gain enthalpy than Si.
Reason: This is because C-atom has a smaller size than Si-atom. (Note that the electron-electron repulsions in
these atoms are not very large because they contain only 4 electrons in the outermost shell.)
1 3 . 2 0 | Periodic Table and Periodicity

Illustration 18: (i) Arrange the following elements in order of decreasing electron gain enthalpy: B, C, N, O.
 (JEE ADVANCED)
Sol: N has +ve electron gain enthalpy while, all others have –ve electron gain enthalpies. While moving from
B → C → O, size decreases leading to –ve electron gain enthalpy in the same order. Thus, the overall decreasing
order of electron gain enthalpies is N, B, C, O.

7.4 Electronegativity
The tendency of an atom to attract the shared pair of electrons of the covalent bond towards itself is called
electronegativity of that atom.

Factors Affecting Electronegativity

Atomic size: Electronegativity of a bonded atom decreases with increase in size since the attractive force on the
valence electrons decreases and hence electronegativity decreases.
Hybridisation state of atom: Electronegativity increases with increase in the s-character of the hybrid orbital. This is
because, the s-orbital is nearer to the nucleus and thus, suffers greater attraction leading to increased electronegativity.
The number of covalent bonds present between two bonded atoms is known as its bond order. With increase in the
bond order, the bond distance decreases, effective nuclear charge increases and thus electronegativity increases.
Increasing order of electronegativity is as follows: C – C < C = C < C ≡ C. When effective nuclear charge is high, the
nucleus will attract the shared electrons with greater strength to give high electronegativity.
Oxidation number: The electronegativity value increases with the increase in oxidation number since the radius
decreases with the increase in oxidation number.
The increasing order of electronegativity is as follows: Fe < Fe+2 < Fe+3
Electronegativity does not depend on stability of fully-filled or half-filled orbitals because it is simply the capacity
of the nucleus to attract a bonded pair of electrons.

Trends in Electronegativity: Atomic size decreases across a period. Thus, electronegativity increases. Atomic
size increases down a group decreasing the electronegativity.

F has maximum electronegativity value in the periodic table, while Cs has minimum.
According to the Pauling scale, the electronegativity value of F is 4.0, O is 3.5 N is 3.0 and Cl is 3.1

Exceptions
(a) The elements of group IIB i.e. Zn, Cd and Hg show increase in electronegativity value down the group.
(b) The elements of group IIIA, i.e Al to Ga show increase in electronegativity value down the group.
(c) The elements of group IVA, Si onwards, show no change in electronegativity value down the group.

Measurment of Electronegativity

Pauling Scale: If two atoms, A and B, having different electronegativity values, get bonded to form a molecule, AB,
then the bond between A and B in A–B will have both covalent and ionic properties.
∆ A −B = Observed bond energy – Energy of 100% covalent or ∆ A −B = D– EA–B
Where D = Observed bond energy
E A–B = Bond energy of pure covalent bond of A – B
The value of EA–A and EB–B is EA–B = ½ [EA–A + EB–B]

= 0.208 ∆ A −B = X A − XB where, X A > XB or 0.043 × ∆ A −B = (XA– XB)2

 Chem i str y | 13.21

Mulliken Electronegativity Scale: Mulliken suggested that the value of electronegativity of an element as an
average of the values of ionization potential and electron affinity of the element.
I.P. + E.A
XM = (in eV)
2
Where XM = Electronegativity value as given by Mulliken
XM I.P. + E.A
XP
= =
2.8 5.6
Where Xp = Electronegativity value as given by Pauling or Xp = 0.336 (XM – 0.615)

Allred–Roschow’s Scale
Z eff .e2 Z eff .e2 + 0.744
X AR = Xp = 0.359
r2 r2
Zeff = Z – s2 ,p6 ,d10 ,f14 where Z = Nuclear charge
∆IE = Shielding constant
Or Xp = 0.359 XAR + 0.744

Sanderson’s Scale: In Sanderson scale, the stability ratio of an atom itself has been regarded as its electronegativity.

Average electron density of an atom

Xs or S.R. =
Electron density of the isoelectronic iner gas

This is related to Pauling scale as follows-

0.2
=XP × 0.77
S.R. or X s

Applications of Electronegativity
(a) Nomenclature: Name of the more electronegative element is written at the end and ‘ide’ is suffixed to it. The
name of the less electronegative element is written before the name of more electronegative element of the
formula.
E.g. Correct formula Name
(a) IBr Iodine bromide
(b) OF2 Oxygen difluoride
(c) Cl2O Dichlorine oxide

(b) Nature of bond: If the electronegativity difference between the two elements is 1.7 or more, then, an ionic
bond is formed between them. Whereas, if it is less than 1.7, then, covalent bond is formed.
(HF is an exception in which a bond is covalent, although, difference of electronegativity is 1.9)

(c) Metallic and non-metallic nature: Low EN shows metallic nature and high EN shows non-metallic nature
Hydrolysis of AX – where A = Other element
and X = Halogen
If electronegativity of X > Electronegativity of A, then, on hydrolysis, product will be HX.
Example In BCl3, EN of Cl > EN of B
1 3 . 2 2 | Periodic Table and Periodicity

(d) Partial Ionic character in covalent bonds: Partial ionic character is generated in covalent compounds due
to the difference in electronegativities.

Hanny and smith: Calculates percentage of ionic character from the electronegativity difference. Percentage
of ionic character = 16(XA – XB) + 3.5 (XA – XB)2
= 16 ∆ + 3.5 ∆2
= (0.16 ∆ + 0.035 ∆2 ) × 100
Here, XA is electronegativity of element A.
XB is electronegativity of element B.
∆ = XA – XB

(e) Bond length: dA −B = rA + rB − 0.09 ( X A − X )

B
1
or dA −B= (D + DB+B ) − 0.09 ( X A − X )B
2 A−A
Here, XA > XB

(f) Bond energy and stability: Bond strength and stability of A–B increases on increase in difference of
electronegativities of atoms A and B. Therefore, H–F > H–Cl > H–Br >H–I

(g) Acidic strength of hydrides: Bond energy (Strength) ∝ stability of molecule.

Order of stability of hydrohalides is HF > HCl > HBr > HI
So, Order of their acidic strength will be – HF < HCl < HBr < HI
Down the 5A group
NH3 *Thermal stability decreases
PH3 *Basic character decreases
AsH3 *Acidic character increases

In PH3 and AsH3, the difference in the electronegativites of XA and XB is very less, so their bond energy
decreases and hence acidic character (losing H+ ion) increases.

(h) Nature of oxides: If the difference of the two electronegativities (XO–XA) is 2.3 or more than 2.3, then the
oxide will be basic in nature. Similarly, if value of XO–XA is lower than 2.3, then the compound will be first
amphoteric and then acidic in nature.
Oxide Na2O MgO Al2O3 SiO2 P2O5 SO3 Cl2O7
(XO–XA) 2.6 2.3 2.1 1.8 1.5 1.1 0.5
Nature Strongly Basic Amphoteric weakly Acidic Strong Strongest
basic acidic acidic acidic

(i) Nature of hydroxides: According to Gallis, if electronegativity of A in a hydroxide (AOH) is more than 1.7,
then, it will be acidic in nature whereas, it will be basic in nature, if electronegativity is less than 1.7.

For example NaOH and ClOH

Electronegativity (XA) 0.9 3.00
Nature Basic Acidic

If the value is more than XO–XH, then that hydroxide will be basic, otherwise, it will be acidic.
 Chem i str y | 13.23

Illustration 19: Among the following, how many elements have lower electronegativity than oxygen atom-F, Cl, Br,
I, H, S, P, K, Ca (JEE MAIN)

Sol: F is the most electronegative element. Order of electronegativity- F > O > N = Cl > …… Except F, all will have
electronegativity less than oxygen.

Illustration 20: What is the difference in the electronegativity of two atoms, when the percentage ionic character
is 19.5%? (JEE ADVANCED)

Sol: Hanny – Smith equation

Percentage of ionic character
= (16 ∆ + 3.5 ∆ )2

∆ = difference in electronegativity
19.5 = 16 ∆ – 3.5 ∆2

3.5 ∆2 + 16 ∆ – 19.5 = 0
Solving quadratic, we get, ∆ = 1

8. TRENDS IN CHEMICAL PROPERTIES

Valency/valence, also known as valence number, is the number of valence bonds a given atom has formed, or
can form, with one or more atoms.
Table 13.4: Variation of valence in a group:

Group 1 2 13 14 15 16 17 18
Number of valence electron/s 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
Valence 1 2 3 4 3,5 2,6 1,7 0,8

Variation of valence in a period: On moving along the period, the number of valence electrons increases from 1
to 8. Consequently, the valence of the elements with respect to hydrogen increases from 1 to 4 up to group IV and
then decreases to 1 as shown in the table. However, valence with respect to oxygen increases from one to seven
along the period.
Variation of valence in group: On moving down the group, the number of valence electrons remains the same.
Therefore, all the elements in a group have the same valence. For example, elements of group I have valency 1 and
elements of group II have valency 2.
Variation of valence in transition elements: Transition metals show variable valence of 1, 2 or 3 as they can
use electrons from their outermost as well as penultimate shell, during chemical reactions as energy difference
between them is small.

Some anomalous properties of second period elements

Consider the elements of II period.

II period: Li Be B C N O F Ne
The elements of gp. 1, 2 (Li & Be) and of gp. 13–17 (B to F) differ in many respects from other members of their
group. (These points of difference will be later studied in detail.)Some anomalous properties of 2nd period elements
are given below with their explanation.

(a) Covalence: The maximum covalency of 2nd period elements is four while, other members may also show
higher covalency. e.g., BF4– exists but [BF6]3– is known. Similarly OF2 is known but OF4, OF6 are not while, SF4 are
SF6 are known, N is never pentavalent etc.
1 3 . 2 4 | Periodic Table and Periodicity

Explanation: These elements have only two shells in their atom and the valence shell contain 4 orbitals only (one
2s and three 2p) so, a maximum of four bonds can be formed. In the 3rd period and onwards, the valence shell
contain empty d–orbitals also. So, covalency may be more than four.
(b) pπ ‒ pπ Multiple bonding: Bonds like C=C, C ≡ C, N ≡ N, C=O etc. exist due to p π − p π multiple bonding.
These elements are smaller in size and mostly electronegative in their respective groups thus forming multiple
bonds.
(c) Diagonal relationship: Diagonal relationship between elements of II & III periods.
Li Be B C
Na Mg Al Si
Diagonal relationship between these elements can be explained on the basis of approximately similar charge/
size ratio of diagonally related elements.

9. PERIODIC PROPERTIES OF ELEMENTS

9.1 Periodicity Along the Period

(a) Ionization enthalpy: Increases along the period (with exception).
(b) Electron gain enthalpy: Increases along the period (with exception).
(c) Electronegativity: Increases along the period.
(d) Atomic radius: Decreases along the period.
(e) Ionic radius: The radii of isoelectronic ions decrease with increase in atomic number.
(f) Atomic volume: Volume occupied by 1 g-atom of an element in solid state is Atomic Volume.
Atomic volume decreases up to metals and then increases:
Na Mg Al Si P S Cl Ar
Atomic volume (cm )
24 14 10 12 17 16 19 23.7
3

(g) Melting point, Boiling point: Increases along the period for metals.
Na Mg Al
M.P (ºC) 98 649 660
B.P (ºC) 883 1100 1800

(h) Density: Increases along the period.

(i) Reducing behavior: Decreases along the period.

Na Mg Al Si P S Cl
 

Strong reductants Strong oxidants

( j) Metallic character: Decreases along the period.

Na Mg Al Si P S Cl
 Metalloid 
Metals Non−metals

Increasing non-metallic nature


Decreasing metallic nature
→

(k) Electropositive character: Decreases along the period.

 Chem i str y | 13.25

(l) Nature of oxides: The basic character of oxides decreases and acidic character increases along the period.
Elements: Na Mg Al Si P S Cl

Oxides: Na2O MgO Al2O3 SiO2 P2O5 SO3 Cl2O7

 Amphoteric 
Basic

(m) Nature of hydrides: The basic character of hydrides decreases along the period.
(n) Valency: (i) Valency with respect to oxygen increases from one to seven along the period (table 1.9). (ii)
Valency with respect to hydrogen increases first from one to four & then decreases to one (table 1.9)

Table 13.5: Valence of Elements

Group I II III IV V VI VIII

Valency with respect to

1 2 3 4 5 6 7
oxygen

Formula of the oxide R 2O RO R2O3 RO2 R2O5 RO3 R2O7

Valency with respect to

1 2 3 4 3 2 1
hydrogen

Formula of the hydride RH RH2 RH3 RH4 RH3 RH2 RH

9.2 Periodicity along the Group

(a) Ionisation enthalpy : Decreases
(b) Electron gain enthalpy : Decreases
(c) Electronegativity : Decreases
(d) Atomic radii : Increases
(e) Ionic radii : Increases
(f) Atomic volume : Increases
(g) M.P./B.P : Decreases
(h) Density : Increases
(i) Oxidant-Reductant nature :
* Reducing nature of metals : Increases
* Oxidizing nature of non-metals : Decreases
(i) Metallic character : Increases
( j) Electro positive character : Increases
(k) Basic character of oxide : Increases
(l) Basic character of hydride : Decreases
1 3 . 2 6 | Periodic Table and Periodicity

PLANCESS CONCEPTS

Figure 13.3: Variation of properties across the table

Rohit Kumar JEE 2012, AIR 79

Some Important Things to Remember

 1. Liquid radioactive element: Francium (Fr)
 2. Rarest element in earth crust: Astatine (At)
 3. Most poisonous metal: Plutonium (Pu)
 4. Element with the maximum number of natural isotopes: Tin(Sn)
 5. First man-made element: Technetium (Tc)
 6. The size of the largest atom (Cs) is approximately 4.4 times to that of the smallest (H) atom.
 7. Out of 17 non-metals known, 11 are gases, one is liquid (Br) and 5 are solids (C, P, S, Si and I)
 8. Element with highest M.P.: Carbon (C in diamond)
 9. Metal with highest M.P.: Tungsten (W)
 10. Metal with maximum density: Iridium(Ir) (22.61 g/cc)
 11. Metal with minimum density: Lithium(Li)
 12. Lightest element: Hydrogen(H)
 13. Most acidic oxide: Dichlorine heptoxide (Cl2O7)
 Chem i str y | 13.27

POINTS TO REMEMBER

Periodic Table

Groups Period Blocks

(Columns) (Rows)
d-block
Alkali Metals
Transition
Alkaline Earth
metals
Halogens
Noble gases f-block
lanthanides
and Actinides

Periodicity Trends in the

Properties

Atomic Electron- Electron- Ionization

Radii negativity Affinity Enthalpy

JEE Main/Boards

Exercise 1 Q.4 Mg2+, O2–, Na+, F–, N3– (Arrange in decreasing order
of ionic size)
Q.1 The electron affinity of each one of Be and Mg is
zero. Give reason. Q.5 Why Ca2+ has a smaller ionic radius than K+.

Q.2 Explain the following Q.6 Arrange in decreasing order of atomic size: Na, Cs,
Mg, Si, Cl.
(i) The process O(g)+ e– → O–(g)+141 kJ mol–1 gives a
positive electron affinity though
Q.7 Why the first ionization energy of carbon atom is
∆E = –141 kJ mol–1 (exothermic). greater than that of boron atom whereas, the reverse is
(ii) The process O–(g)+e–+700 kJ mol–1 → O2–(g) gives a true for the second ionization energy.
negative electron affinity though ,
∆E = +700 kJ mol–1 (endothermic). Q.8 (IE1) of Be is greater than (IE)1 of B but (IE)2 of B is
greater than that of Be. Explain.
Q.3 There is an irregular trend in the ionization energies
of group 13 elements. Explain. Q.9 EA of Cu is 123 kJ mol–1 but that of Zn is –87 kJ
mol–1. Explain.
1 3 . 2 8 | Periodic Table and Periodicity

Q.10 In the preparation of hydrocarbon by Kolbe’s (vi) Zero group elements are chemically inert.
electrolysis, generally RCOONa or RCOOK are taken but
(vii) The second ionization potential of an element is
not RCOOLi. Explain.
higher than its first ionization potential.
(viii) The radius of an anion is greater than the parent
Q.11 The IE do not follow a regular trend in II and III
atom while that of a cation is lesser than the atom.
periods with increasing atomic number. Why ?

Q.18 State giving reasons which one will have a higher

Q.12 Explain why a few elements such as Be (+0.6), N
value
(+0.3) & He(+0.6) have positive electron gain enthalpies
while majority of elements have negative values. (i) IE1 or F or Cl
(ii) EA of O or O–
Q.13 Which bond in each pair is more polar
(iii) ionic radius of K+ or Cl–
(A) P–Cl or P–Br (B) S–Cl or S–O
(C) N–O or N–F Q.19 From among the elements, choose the following:
Cl, Br, F, Al, C, Li, Cs & Xe.
Q.14 LiCl is hydrated but NaCl is always anhydrous. (i) The element with highest electron affinity.
Explain.
(ii) The element with lowest ionization potential.

Q.15 Explain physical property of third period?

Q.20 In the ionic compound KF, the K+ and F– ions are
found to have practically radii, about 1.34 Å each. What
Q.16 Arrange the following according to the instructions do you predict about the relative covalent radii of K
given against each. and F?
(i) S, O, Se, C (Increasing order of atomic radius)
(ii) Ca, Al, O, N (Increasing paramagnetism) Q.21 Explain applications of electronegativity

(iii) F, Cl–, Br–, I– (Increasing polarizability)

Q.22 Define atomic size and ionic size?
(iv) Na, Mg and Al (Increasing electropositive character)
(v) Na, P, Si, Al, S (Decreasing order of IE) Q.23 Which oxide is more basic, MgO or BaO? Why?
(vi) I–, Br–, Cl– (Decreasing order of ionic size)
Q.24 The basic nature of hydroxides of group 13 (III–A)
(vii) C,F, Li, O, Cs (Increasing order of IE1)
decreases progressively down the group. Comment.
(viii) O, F, Be, C, N (Decreasing order of electron affinity)
(ix) Mg2+, O2–, Na+, F–, N3– (Decreasing order of ionic size) Q.25 Based on location in P.T., which of the following
would you expect to be acidic & which basic.
(x) Na+, I–, Mg2+, Rb+, Cl– (Decreasing order of ionic radii)
(i) CsOH (ii) IOH
Q.17 Explain the following: (iii) Sr(OH)2 (iv) Se(OH)2
(i) Fluorine is the most electronegative and Cesium is (v) FrOH (vi) BrOH
the most electropositive element.
(ii) The first ionization energy of carbon atom is greater Q.26 Compare the following giving reasons Acidic
than that of boron atom whereas, the reverse is true for nature of oxides: CaO, CO, CO2, N2O5, SO3.
the second ionization energy.
(iii) Electron affinities of halogens are high. Q.27 Write the drawback of Mendeleev table?

(iv) The formation of F–(g) from F(g) is exothermic

whereas that of O2–(g) from O–(g) is endothermic. Q.28 Write the postulates of modern periodic table?

(v) Transition and inner transition metals have variable

Q.29 Explain electron affinity of periodic tables?
oxidation states.
 Chem i str y | 13.29

Q.30 Explain factors affecting ionization potential? Q.7 Fluorine has the highest electronegativity among
the ns2 np5 group on the Pauling scale, but the electron
Q.31 From among the elements, choose the following: affinity of fluorine is less than that of chlorine because:
Cl, Br, F, Al, C, Li, Cs & Xe. (A) The atomic number of fluorine is less than that of
(i) The element whose oxide is amphoteric. chlorine

(ii) The element which has smallest radii. (B) Fluorine being the first member of the family
behaves in an unusual manner
(iii) The element whose atom has 8 electrons in the
outermost shell. (C) Chlorine can accommodate an electron better than
fluorine by utilizing its vacant 3d orbital
(D) Small size, high electron density and an increased
Exercise 2 electron repulsion makes addition of an electron to
fluorine less favourable than that in the case of chlorine.
Single Correct Choice Type
Q.8 The last electron in each normal elements of period
Q.1 When the following five anions are arranged in
is filled in
order of decreasing ionic radius, the correct sequence
is: (A) The same energy sublevel
(A) Se2–, I–, Br–, O2–, F–
(B) I–, Se2–,O2–, Br–, F– (B) The same enrgy level
(C) Se2–, I–, Br–, F– ,O2–
(D) I–, Se2–,Br–, O2–, F– (C) The same orbital
(D) Relation between Ix and Iz is uncertain
Q.2 Which of the following is wrong regarding the
stability of the ions Ge,Sn and Pb Q.9 The greater stability of the lower oxidation state in
(A) Ge < Sn < Pb
2+ 2+ 2+
(B) Ge > Sn > Pb
4+ 4+ 4+ heavier p block metals in the consequence of
(C) Sn4+ > Sn2+ (D) Pb2+ < Pb4+ (A) Electronic transition within p-orbitals
(B) Electronic transition from s to p-orbitals
Q.3 The law of triads is not applicable on
(C) Inert pair effect
(A) Cl, Br, I (B) Na, K, Rb
(D) Expansion of octet
(C) S, Se, Te (D) Ca, Sr, Ba
Q.10 Oxidation number of p-block elements is
Q.4 The atomic volume was choosen as the basic of [Excluding inert gases]
periodic classification of elements by
(A) Equal to group number
(A) Niels Bohr (B) Mendeleev
(B) Group number +2
(C) Lothar meyer (D) Newlands
(C) Between the range [Group no…(Group no. 8)]

Q.5 The majority of gaseous elements in the periodic (D) Number of unpaired electrons in the valence shell
table are placed
(A) At bottom left hand side Q.11 The correct order of second ionization potential
of carbon, nitrogen, oxygen and fluorine is:
(B) At top right hand side
(A) C > N > O > F (B) O > N > F > C
(C) Below the main table
(C) O > F > N > C (D) F > O > N > C
(D) Along side d block elements
Q.12 Which statement is wrong:
Q.6 The electronic configuration
(A) 2nd ionization energy shows jump in alkali metals
1s , 2s , 2p , 3s , 3p , 3d , 4s , 4p , 4d , 5s is for:
2 2 6 2 6 10 2 6 10 2
(B) 2nd electron affinity for halogens is zero
(A) f-block element (B) d-block element (C) Maximum electron affinity exists for F
(C) p-block element (D) s-block element (D) Maximum ionization energy exists for He
1 3 . 3 0 | Periodic Table and Periodicity

Q.13 Which of the following is the configuration of Q.19 IP1 and IP2 of Mg are 178 and 348 kcal mol–1. The
second excited state of the element isoelectronic with energy required for the reaction, Mg → Mg2+ + 2e–
O2 or P– or Cl+
(A) +170 kcal (B) +526 kcal
(A) [Ne]3s2 3px1 3py1 3pz1
(C) E– 2E2 (D) (E1–E2)/2
(B) [Ne]3s2
(C) [Ne]3s1 3pz1 3py1 3pz1 3d1xy 3d1yz Q.20 Electronic configuration of an element of atomic
weight 40 is 2, 8, 8, 2 which of the following statement
(D) [Ne] 3s1 3px1 3pz1 3d1xy
regarding this element is not correct
(A) It belongs to the second group of the P.T
Q.14 Metallic radii of transition elements
(B) It has 20 neutrons
(A) First increase, then decrease periodically
(C) The formula of its oxide is MO2
(B) First decrease, then remain almost constant
(D) It has 20 Protons
(C) First increase, then remaining almost constant
(D) First increase, then increase periodically
Q.21 There are four elements P, Q, R and S: their
configuration are also given. Show that which element
Q.15 For the formation of a covalent bond, the will have highest value of IE2?
difference in the value of electro negativities should be:
(A) P = [He]2s2 (B) Q = [He] 2s22p2
(A) Equal to or less than 1.7 (B) More than 1.7
(C) R = [He] 2s22p1 (D) S = [He] 2s12p3
(C) 1.7 or more (D) None of these
Q.22 The ionization potential of nitrogen is greater
Q.16 Which one of the following is the correct order of than that of oxygen because
interactions?
(A) Nitrogen is an inert element
(A) Covalent < hydrogen bonding < Vander Waal’s <
(B) The outermost shell of nitrogen has half-filled
dipole-dipole
orbitals
(B) Van der Waal’s < hydrogen bonding< dipole-dipole
(C) The radius of nitrogen is more than that of oxygen
< covalent
(D) The radius of oxygen is more than that of nitrogen
(C) Van der Waal’s < dipole-dipole < hydrogen bonding
< covalent
Q.23 Be and Mg have zero value of electron affinities,
(D) Dipole-dipole < Van der Waal’s < hydrogen
because
(A) Be and Mg have [He] 2s2 and [Ne] 3s2 configuration
Q.17 Properties of the elements of which of the
respectively
following pairs do not resemble?
(B) 2s and 3s orbitals are filled to their capacity
(A) Li and Mg (B) Be and Al
(C) Be and Mg are unable to accept electron
(C) Mg and Al (D) B and Si
(D) All the above are correct
Q.18 Which of the following statement is not true?
Q.24 If I1 and I3 etc. represent the successive ionization
(A) The atoms have no tendency to accept electrons in
potentials of an atom then the correct order is.
empty higher energy levels
(A) I1 > I2 > I3 (B) I1 < I2 > I3 (C) I1 < I2 < I3 (D) I2 > I1 > I3
(B) The atoms have no tendency to accept electrons in
empty high energy sublevels
Q.25 For I.P, which order is wrong
(C) The alkali metals have no tendency to accept
electrons (1) F > O (2) O > N (3) S > P (4) Be > B
(D) The atoms with exactly half-filled electronic Code is –
configurations have no tendency to accept electrons. (A) 1, 2, 3 (B) 2, 3 (C) 1, 4 (D) 1, 2, 4
 Chem i str y | 13.31

Q.26 Alkali metals do not form dipositive ions, because Q.33 The screening effect of inert electrons of the
nucleus causes
(A) The difference in the first and second I.P. is more
than 16 eV (A) A decrease in the ionization potential
(B) The difference in the first and second I.P. is less than (B) An increase in the ionization potential
11 eV (C) No effect on the ionization potential
(C) Alkali metals have one electron in their ultimate (D) An increase in the nuclei attraction of the electrons
energy level
(D) Oxidation state of alkali metals is +1 Q.34 The statement that is not correct for the periodic
classification of elements is
Q.27 Electronic configuration of X+2 and Y+3 are:
(A) The properties of elements are the periodic functions
X+2 = [Ar] 3d8, Y+3 = [Ar] 3d3. What are the atomic
of their atomic numbers
number of X0 and Y0 respectively.
(B) Non-metallic elements are lesser in number than
(A) 28, 24 (B) 28, 25 (C) 28, 26 (D) 28, 27 metallic elements
(C) The first ionization energies along a period vary in
Q.28 The electronegativity values of C, N, O and F a regular manner with increase in the atomic number
(A) Increase from carbon to fluorine (D) For transition elements, the d-sub-shells are filled
(B) Decrease from carbon to fluorine with electrons monotonically with an increase in atomic
number
(C) Increase up to oxygen and minimum at a fluorine
(D) Is minimum at nitrogen and then increase continuously Q.35 Match List I with List II and select the correct
answer using the codes given below the lists
Q.29 The valency in the II period from left to right
List I List II
(A) Increases
(B) Decreases (i) 1s2 2s2 2p6 3s2 3p6 4s2 (p) In

(C) First increases, then decreases (ii) 1s2 2s2 2p6 3s2 3p6 3d10 4s1 (q) In
(D) First decreases, then increases
(iii) 1s2 2s2 2p6 3s2 3p6 3d10 4s2 (r) Ca
4p64d10
Q.30 Which of the following represents incorrect
relation of electronegativity (iv) 1s2 2p2 2p6 3s2 3d10 4s2 4s2 (s) Cu
4p105s25p1
(A) C > O > N (B) C < O >N
(C) O > C < N (D) O > N > C Codes: i ii iii iv
(A) p q r s
Q.31 In a period, elements are arranged in strict
sequence of (B) p r q s

(A) Decreasing charges in the nucleus (C) r s q p

(B) Increasing charges in the nucleus (D) p s r q

(C) Constant charges in the nucleus
Q.36 Match List-I with List-II and select the correct
(D) Equal charges in the nucleus
answer from the codes given below the lists

Q.32 In the periodic table, the metallic character of List I List II

elements
(A) ns2, np5 (p) Chromium
(A) Decreases across a period and down a group
(B) (n–)d10, ns1 (q) Copper
(B) Decreases across a period and increases down a group
(C) (n–1)d10, ns2, np6 (r) Krypton
(C) Increases across a period and down a group
(D) Increases across a period and decreases down a (D) (n–1)d , ns np
10 2, 6
(s) Bromine (n = 4)
group
1 3 . 3 2 | Periodic Table and Periodicity

Q.37 Match List I with List II and select the correct Q.2 The first ionization potentials in electron volts of
answer from the codes given below the lists nitrogen and oxygen atoms are respectively given by
 (1987)
List I List II (A) 14.6, 13.6 (B) 13.6, 14.6
(A) Highest ionization potential (p) Technitium (C) 13.6, 13.6 (D) 14.6, 14.6
(B) Highest electronegativity (q) Lithium
Q.3 The elements which occupy the peaks of ionization
(C) Artificial element (r) Helium
energy curve, are  (2000)
(D) High reducing ability (s) Fluorine
(A) Na, K, Rb, Cs (B) Na, Mg, Cl, I
(C) Cl, Br, I, F (D) He, Ne, Ar, Kr
Q.38 The correct order of relative basic character of
NaOH, Mg(OH)2 and Al(OH)3 is– Q.4 Arrange F, Cl, O, N in the decreasing order of
(A) Al(OH)3 > Mg(OH)2 > NaOH electronegativity
(B) Mg(OH)2 > NaOH > Al(OH)3 (A) O > F > N > Cl (B) F > N > Cl > O
(C) NaOH > Mg(OH)2 > Al(OH)3 (C) Cl > F > N > O (D) F > O > N > Cl
(D) Al(OH)3 > NaOH < Mg(OH)2
Q.5 Ionic radii of (1999)

Q.39 Match List–I with List–II and select the correct (A) Ti4+ < Mn7+ (B) 35Cl– < 37Cl–
answer from the codes given below the lists (C) K+ > Cl– (D) P3+ > P5+

List I List II Q.6 In which block, 106th element belongs

(i) Increasing atomic size (p) Cl < O < F (A) s-block (B) p-block

(ii) Decreasing atomic radius (q) Li < Be < B (C) d-block (D) f-block

(iii) Increasing electronegativity (r) Si < Al < Mg Q.7 The first ( ∆1 H1 ) and second ( ∆1 H2 ) ionization
(iv) Decreasing effective nuclear (s) Na> N > F enthalpies (in kJ mol–1) and the electron gain enthalpy
charge ( )
∆egH (in kJ mol–1) of the elements I, II, III, IV and V are

Codes: i ii iii iv given below

(A) r s p q Element ∆1 H1 ∆1 H2 ∆egH

(B) s q r p I 520 7300 –60
(C) p q r s II 419 3051 –48
(D) q p s r III 1681 3374 –328
IV 1008 1846 –295
V 2372 5251 +48
Previous Years Questions The most reactive metal and the least reactive non-
metal of these are respectively  (2010)
Q.1 Which of the following statement is correct with
(A) I and V (B) V and II
respect to the property of element with an increase in
atomic number in the carbon family (group 14)  (2004) (C) II and V (D) V and II
(A) Atomic size decrease (E) V and III
(B) Ionisation energy increase
(C) Metallic character decrease
(D) Stability of +2 oxidation state increase
 Chem i str y | 13.33

Read the assertion and reason carefully to mark the (C) NH3 < PH3 < AsH3 < SbH3 : increasing basic
correct option out of the options given below: strength
(A) If both assertion and reason are true and the reason (D) B < C < O < N : increasing first ionization enthalpy.
is the correct explanation of the assertion.
(B) If both assertion and reason are true but reason is Q.15 The set representing the correct order of ionic
not the correct explanation of the assertion. radius is:  (2009)
(C) If assertion is true but reason is false. (A) Li+ > Be2+ > Na+ > Mg2+
(D) If the assertion and reason both are false.
(B) Na+ > Li+ > Mg2+ > Be2+
(E) If assertion is false but reason is true.
(C) Li+ > Na+ > Mg2+ > Be2+

Q.8 Assertion: Positive ions will be wider than parent (D) Mg2+ > Be2+ > Li+ > Na+
atoms (1999)
Reason: Nuclear charge pulls them closer. Q.16 The bond dissociation energy of B – F in BF3 is 646
kJ mol-1 whereas that of C-F in CF4 is 515 kJ mol-1. The
correct reason for higher B-F bond dissociation energy
Q.9 Assertion: More is the electron affinity greater is
as compared to that of C- F is:  (2009)
the reducing character. (2000)
(A) Smaller size of B-atom as compared to that of C- atom
Reason: Reducing character depends on number of
electrons gained. (B) Stronger σ bond between B and F in BF3 as
compared to that between C and F in CF4
Q.10 Assertion: Ground state configuration of Cr is (C) Significant p π − p π interaction between B and F in
3d5, 4s1. (2004) BF3 whereas there is no possibility of such interaction
Reason: A set of half filled orbitals containing one between C and F in CF4 .
electron each with their spin parallel provides extra (D) Lower degree of p π − p π interaction between B
stability to the system. and F in BF3 than that between C and F in CF4 .

Q.11 Assertion: I.E. Of 7N is more that of 8O as well as 6C. Q.17 The correct sequence which shows decreasing
 (2005) order of the ionic radii of the elements is  (2010)
Reason: This is due to difference in reactivity towards (A) Al3+ > Mg2+ > Na + > F − > O2−
oxygen. + 2+ 3+ 2− −
(B) Na > Mg > Al > O > F
+ − 2+ 2− 3+
Q.12 Which one of the following constitutes a group of (C) Na > F > Mg > O > Al
2− − + 2+ 3+
the isoelectronic species?  (2008) (D) O > F > Na > Mg > Al
(A) C 22− , O2− , CO, NO (B) NO+ , C 22− , CN− ,N2
(C) CN− ,N2 , O22− , C 22− (D) N2 , O2− , NO+ , CO Q.18 Among the following the maximum covalent
character is shown by the compound:  (2011)

Q.13 Which one of the following pairs of species have (A) SnCl2 (B) AlCl3
the same bond order?  (2008) (C) MgCl2 (D) FeCl2
− + − +
(A) CN and NO (B) CN and CN
− −
(C) O 2 and CN (D) NO and CN
+ + Q.19 Which one of the following order represents the
correct sequence of the increasing basic nature of the
given oxides?  (2011)
Q.14 In which of the following arrangements, the
sequence is not strictly according to the property (A) MgO < K 2O < Al2O3 < Na2O
written against it? (2009) (B) Na2O < K 2O < MgO < Al2O3
(A) CO 2 < SiO2 < SnO2 < PbO2 : increasing oxidising (C) K 2O < Na2O < Al2O3 < MgO
power
(D) Al2O3 < MgO < Na2O < K 2O
(B) HF < HCl < HBr < HI : increasing acid strength
1 3 . 3 4 | Periodic Table and Periodicity

Q.20 The molecule having smallest bond angle is: Q.23 The first ionisation potential of Na is 5.1 eV. The
 (2012) value of electron gain enthalpy of Na+ will be: (2013)
(A) NCl3 (B) AsCl3 (C) SbCl3 (D) PCl3
(A) -2.55 eV (B) -5.1 eV

Q.21 Which of the following on thermal decomposition (C) -10.2 eV (D) +2.55 eV
yields a basic as well as an acidic oxide?  (2012)
(A) NaNO3 (B) KClO3 (C) CaCO3 (D) NH4NO3 Q.24 The ionic radii (in Å) N3− , O2− and F− are
respectively: (2015)
Q.22 Which of the following represents the correct (A) 1.36, 1.40 and 1.71
order of increasing first ionization enthalpy for Ca, Ba,
(B) 1.36, 1.71 and 1.40
S, Se and Ar? (2013)
(C) 1.71, 1.40 and 1.36
(A) Ca < S < Ba < Se < Ar
(D) 1.71, 1.36 and 1.40
(B) S < Se < Ca < Ba < Ar
(C) Ba < Ca < Se < S < Ar
(D) Ca < Ba < S < Se < Ar

JEE Advanced/Boards

Exercise 1 Q.4 Why does the third period contains

8 elements and not 18?
Q.1 Use the following system of naming elements in
which first alphabets of the digits are written collectively, Q.5 Arrange the following in order of increasing ionic
radius:
0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9
(i) Cl– , P3–, S2–, F– (ii) Al3+, Mg2+, Na+, O2–, F–
nil uni bi tri quad pent hex sept oct enn
to write the three-letter symbols for the elements with (iii) Na+, Mg2+, K+.
atomic number 101 to 109.
Q.6 If internuclear distance between Cl atoms
Q.2 Arrange the following in increasing order of the in Cl2 is 10 Å & between H atoms is H2 is 2 Å, then
property as indicated: calculate internuclear distance between H and Cl
(Electronegativity of H = 2.1 & Cl = 3.0).
(i) Pb, Pb2+ and Pb4+(size)
(ii) Mg, Al, Si and Na(ionisation potential)
Q.7 The As-Cl bond distance in AsCl3 is 2.20 Å. Estimate
(iii) MgO, SrO, Rb2O, NiO, Cs2O (basic character) the SBCR (single bond covalent radius) of As.
(iv) Be(OH), Mg(OH2, Ca(OH)2, Ba(OH)2 (basicity) (Assume EN of both to be same and radius
NH3 of Cl = 0.99 Å.)

(v) Cl– , K+, Ca2+, Ar (ionization energy)

Q.8 The Pt–Cl distance has
(a) been
Cl found to Clbe 2.32 Å in
(vi) As, F, S, Cl (Electronegativity)
several crystalline compounds. If this value applies to
(vii) LiCl, LiBr, LiI (Ionic character) both of the compounds shown in NH figure, what is Cl–Cl
3
distance in (i) and (ii)
(viii) Li+, Na+, K+, Rb+, Cs+ (mobility of hydrated ions)
(i) NH3 (ii)
(ix) Li, Na, K, Rb and Cs (hydrated radii) NH3

(x) Be2+, Mg2+, Ca2+, Sr2+, Ba2+ (hydration of ions) (a) Cl Cl (b) Cl Pt NH3

Q.3 Why are inert gases mono-atomic?

NH3 Cl

NH3
 Chem i str y | 13.35

Q.9 K+ and F– have identical radius about 1.34 Å. What Exercise 2

should be the atomic radius of K and F atoms.
Single Correct Choice Type
Q.10 The radii of noble gases are greater than that of
Q.1 Two p-block elements x (outer configuration
the radii of precedent halogens.
ns2 , np3) and z (outer configuration ns2 np4) occupy
neighbouring positions in a period. Using this
Q.11 The covalent radii (Å) do not increases regularly information, which of the following is correct with
from B to Tl (B = 0. 80 Å, Al = 1.25 Å; Ga = 1.25 Å, respect to their ionization potential Ix and Iz.
In = 1.50 Å ; Tl = 1.55 Å) How do you account for this
(A) Ix > Iz (B) Iz and Ix (C) Iz = Ix (D) Iz > Ix
anomalous behavior.

Q.12 Calculate E.N. of chlorine atom on Pauling scale if Q.2 True position of lanthanides are:
I.E. of Cl– is 4eV & of E.A. of Cl+ is +13.0 eV. (A) After III B group and in the 6th period
(B) After III B group in the 3rd period
Q.13 Why in isoelectronic species, the ionic / atomic
radii decrease with increase in atomic numbers? (C) After VI B group in the 3rd period
(D) After III B group in the 4th Period
Q.14 The ionisation energy of the coinage metals fall in
the order Cu > Ag < Au. Q.3 The main cause of diagonal relationship between
Be and Al is
Q.15 The first ionization energy of carbon atom is (A) Similarity in ionic sizes
greater than that of boron where as the reverse is true
for second ionization energy. Explain. (B) Similar ionic potentials
(C) Similar electronegativity
Q.16 Define ionization potential? (D) Similar atomic volume

Q.17 The Ist ionization energy of potassium is less than Q.4 Electronic configuration of four elements are:
that of Cu but the reverse is true for IInd ionisation energy. a = 1s2 ; 2s2, 2p1 ; b = 1s2 ; 2s2, 2p2; c = 1s2; 2s2, 2p5 ;
d = 1s2 ; 2s2 , 2p6 ; 3s1. Which one of these would most
Q.18 The sums of first and second ionization energies readily form diatomic molecule?
and those of third fourth ionisation energies in (A) a (B) b (C) c (D) d
(kJ mol–1) of nickel and platinum are
(IE)1 + (EI)2 (IE)3 + (IE)4 Q.5 EN of the element A is E1 and IP is E2. Hence EA will
Ni 2.49 8.80 be:

Pt 2.66 6.70 (A) 2E1 – E2 (B) E1 – E2 (C) E1 – 2E2 (D) E1 + E2

Based on this information; write

(i) The most stable oxidation states of Ni and Pt Q.6

(ii) Name of one of the metals which can more easily The above configuration would be of the species
form compounds in its +4 oxidation state. (i) S (ii) Cl+ (iii) p (iv) Ar–2

Code is –
Q.19 The first ionization enthalpy of magnesium is
higher than of sodium. On the other hand, the second (A) i, ii (B) iiii, iv (C) i, iv (D) ii, iii
ionization enthalpy of sodium is very much higher than
that of magnesium. Explain.

Q.20 Na+ has higher value of ionization energy than

Ne, though both have same electronic configuration.
Explain?
1 3 . 3 6 | Periodic Table and Periodicity

Q.7 Which of the following statements is correct for the Q.4 The statements that is/are true for the long form of
addition of an electron to an isolated and gaseous uni- the periodic table is/are  (1988)
negatively charged oxygen O– ion?
(A) It reflects the sequence of filling the electrons in the
(A) The addition of electron cannot occur order of sub-energy level s, p, d and f
(B) The addition of electron occurs with evolution of (B) It helps to predict the stable valency states of the
energy elements
(C) The addition of electron occurs with absorption of (C) It reflects tends in physical and chemical properties
energy of the elements
(D) None of the above (D) It helps to predict the relative iconicity of the bond
between any two elements
Q.8 In the transformation Na(s) → Na+(g), the energies
involved are Q.5 Sodium sulphate is soluble in water whereas barium
(A) Ionization energy sulphate is sparingly soluble because (1989)
(B) Sublimation energy (A) The hydration energy of sodium sulphate is more is
(C) Ionization energy and sublimation energy both more than its lattice energy

(D) None of the above (B) The lattice energy of barium sulphate is more than
its hydration energy

Q.9 The process of requiring absorption of energy is (C) The lattice energy has no role to play in solubility

(A) F → F– (B) Cl → Cl– (D) The hydration energy of sodium sulphate is less
than its lattice energy
(C) O– → O–2 (D) H → H–

Q.6 The softness of group IA metals increases down the

Q.10 The cynide CN– & N2 are isoelectronic. But in
group with increasing atomic number.  (1986)
contrast to CN– , N2 is chemically inert because of –
(A) Low bond energy Q.7 In group IA of alkali metals, the ionization potential
(B) Absence of bond polarity decreases down the group. Therefore, lithium is a poor
(C) Unsymmetrical electron distribution reducing agent. (1987)

(D) Presence of more electron in bonding

Q.8 Arrange the following in order of their  (1985)
(i) Decreasing ionic size Mg2+, O2–, Na+, F–
(ii) Increasing first ionization energy Mg, Al, Si, Na
Previous Year Questions
(iii) Increasing bond length F2, N2 Cl2, O2
Q.1 The correct order of radii is  (2000)
Q.9 Arrange the following in the order of their increasing
(A) N < Be < B (B) F– < O2– < N3–
size: (1986)
(C) Na < Li < K (D) Fe3+< Fe2+ < Fe4+ Cl–, S2– , Ca2+, Ar

Q.2 The set representing the correct order of first Q.10 Compare qualitatively the first and second
ionization potential is  (2001) ionization potentials of copper and zinc. Explain the
(A) K > Na > Li (B) Be > Mg > Ca observation. (1996)
(C) B > C > N (D) Ge > Si > C
Q.11 Arrange the following ions in order of their
increasing radii (1997)
Q.3 Identify the least stable ion amongst the following
 (2000) Li+, Mg2+, K+, Al3+.
(A) Li+ (B) Be– (C) B– (D) C–
 Chem i str y | 13.37

Q.12 The species having bond order different from that Q.14 Among the following, the number of elements
in CO is (2007) showing only one non-zero oxidation state is:  (2010)
(A) NO − (B) NO + (C) CN− (D) N2 O, Cl, F, N, P, Sn, Tl, Na, Ti

Q.13 Statement-I: Pb4+ compounds are stronger Q.15 The increasing order of atomic radii of the
oxidizing agents than Sn4+ compounds. (2008) following Group 13 elements is  (2016)
Statement-II: The higher oxidation states for the group (A) Al < Ga < In < Ti (B) Ga < Al < Tl < In
14 elements are more stable for the heavier members
(C) Al < In < Ga < Ti (D) Al < Ga < Tl < In
of the group due to ‘inert pair effect’.
(A) Statement-I is True, Statement-II is True; Statement-II
is correct explanation for Statement-I
(B) Statement-I is True, Statement-II is True; Statement-II
is NOT a correct explanation for Statement-I
(C) Statement-I is True, Statement-II is False
(D) Statement-I is False, Statement-II is True

PlancEssential Questions
JEE Main/Boards JEE Advanced/Boards

Exercise 1 Exercise 1
Q.1 Q.9 Q.10 Q.14 Q.9 Q.11 Q.14
Q.16 Q.17 (D) Q. 21
Exercise 2
Exercise 2 Q.5 Q.10
Q.13 Q.16 Q.23 Q.26 Q.33
Q.35 Q.37 Previous Years’ Questions
Q.5 Q.6
Previous Years’ Questions
Q.7 Q.10
1 3 . 3 8 | Periodic Table and Periodicity

Answer Key

JEE Main/Boards
Exercise 2
Single Correct Choice Type

Q.1 D Q.2 D Q.3 B Q.4 C Q.5 B Q.6 D Q.7 D

Q.8 B Q.9 C Q.10 C Q.11 C Q.12 C Q.13 C Q.14 B

Q.15 A Q.16 C Q.17 C Q.18 D Q.19 B Q.20 C Q.21 C

Q.22 B Q.23 D Q.24 C Q.25 B Q.26 A Q.27 A Q.28 A

Q.29 C Q.30 A Q.31 B Q.32 B Q.33 A Q.34 C Q.35 C

Q.36 C Q.37 A Q.38 C Q.39 A

Previous Years' Questions

Q.1 D Q.2 A Q.3 D Q.4 D Q.5 D Q.6 C Q.7 C

Q.8 D Q.9 E Q.10 A Q.11 C Q.12 B Q.13 A Q.14 C

Q.15 B Q.16 C Q.17 D Q.18 B Q.19 D Q.20 C Q.21 C

Q.22 C Q.23 B Q.24 C

JEE Advanced/Boards

Exercise 2
Single Correct Choice Type

Q.1 A Q.2 A Q.3 B Q.4 C Q.5 A Q.6 A Q.7 C

Q.8 C Q.9 C Q.10 B

Previous Years' Questions

Q.1 B Q.2 B Q.3 B Q.4 B, C, D Q.5 A, B Q.6 True Q.7 False

Q.12 A Q.13 C Q.14 2 Q.15 B

 Chem i str y | 13.39

Solutions

JEE Main/Boards Sol 5: Both Ca2+ and K+ have the same electronic
configuration, i.e. [Ar] and hence equal number of
shells. The ionic radius decreases with increase in
Exercise 1 positive charge, because the loss of an electron results
in an increase in effective nuclear charge and hence a
Sol 1: As we know, the electronic configuration of Be and decrease in radius as the remaining electrons are more
Mg are [He] 2s2 and [Ne] 3s2 respectively. As we see, both firmly bound to the nucleus. If 2 electrons are removed,
of these elements have a fully filled s-orbital & making the effective nuclear charge will increase even more
their configuration very stable compared to other and the size of the ion will decrease further. Therefore,
configuration with incompletely filled orbitals. Therefore, the ionic radius of Ca2+ is less than K+
they have very less tendency to gain an electron, which
makes their electron affinity equal to zero.
Sol 6: All the elements except Cs are period 3 elements
and we know that atomic size decreases in going from
Sol 2: The electronic configuration of oxygen is [He] left to right in a period due to increased effective
2s22p4,which is not very stable. Since this is neither nuclear charge, resulting from the increase in number
a half filled or a full filled configuration, therefore it of protons for same number of electronic shells. Also,
has a natural tendency to accept an electron which the atomic radius of Cs will be bigger than the rest
makes it first electron affinity positive and the process because of more number of shells is Cs. Hence order
exothermic but, after an electron is added, the atom
becomes negatively charged and the addition of a Cs > Na > Mg > Si > Cl
second electron is opposed by coulombic repulsion.
Hence energy has to be supplied for the addition of Sol 7: Electronic configuration of carbon: [He] 2s22p2
second electron. Thus, its second electron affinity is
Electron configuration of Boron: [He] 2s22p1
negative and the process is endothermic.
First ionization energy of carbon is more than Boron
because of increased effective nuclear charge in carbon,
Sol 3: We know that the ionisation energy increases
making removal of electron difficult. After removal of
while going from left to right in a period. But, there
electron:
is an exception while going from group 12 to group
13, which means that ionisation energy decreases from Electronic configuration of C+: [He] 2s22p1
group 12 to group 13. This exception is explained by
Electronic configuration of B+: [He] 2s2
the high stability of group 12 elements due to fully
filled orbitals which makes it difficult to remove the Now B+ has a stable full filled orbital making its
outermost electron compared to group 13 where there configuration very stable compared to incompletely
are no full filled orbitals. Hence, their ionization energy filled configuration of C+. Hence second ionization
is smaller. energy of Boron is more than Carbon

Sol 4: All these ions have the same electronic Sol 8: Electronic configuration of Be: [He] 2s2
configuration, i.e. [Ne].So, difference in size will be due Electronic configuration of B: [He] 2s2 2p1 (IE), of
to electronic charge only. Now, we know that the ionic Be > (IE) of B due to stable full filled orbital configuration
size decreases with increasing positive charge, because of Be making removal of electron difficult.
a loss of electron results in increased effective nuclear
charge and hence the remaining electrons are held After removal of electron
more firmly bound with the nucleus, hence decreasing Electronic configuration of Be+: [He] 2s1
ionic size. Also, ionic size increases with increasing
ionic charge, because addition of an electron results Electronic configuration of B+: [He] 2s2
in an increase in natural repulsion between electrons Here, (IE)2 of B > (IE)2 of Be as now B+ has a more stable
which decreases effective nuclear charge and leads to configuration than Be+ due to full filled orbitals which
increase in ionic size. Therefore, the order of ionic size are not present is Be+
will be N3– >O2– > F– > Na+ > Mg2+
1 3 . 4 0 | Periodic Table and Periodicity

Sol 9: Electronic configuration of Cu: [Ar] 3d2 4s2 Sol 15: Atomic Radius: The atomic radius decreases
while going from left to right till because of increased
Electronic configuration of Zn: [Ar] 3d10 4s2
effective nuclear charge which pulls the electrons closer
Zn has a much more stable configuration than Cu to the nucleus and hence decreases atomic radius.
because of fully filled d orbital compared to Cu. A Atomic radius of Ar is larger because Vander Waals
stable configuration means that Zn has no tendency radius is calculated for Ar as it does not form any strong
to accept an electron which makes its EA negative. Cu bonds.
on the other hand can attain a stable configuration by
First Ionisation Energy: (IE), generally increases across
adding an electron, hence its EA is positive.
the period from left to right due to increase in effective
nuclear charge and poor screening of outer most
Sol 10: For Kolbe’s electrolysis, we want the acid to electrons. However (IE) of Mg > (IE), of Al or Mg has
dissociate into ions easily during the reaction. But since a stable configuration because of full filled orbital and
the acidic strength of carbonic acids increases while going (IE), of P > (IE), of S as P has half-filled orbital making its
from top to bottom in a group, therefore, RCOOLi will be configuration stable.
dissociated into ions to a very little extent compared to
RCOONa or RCOOK, Hence RCOOLi is not used. Electron Affinity (EA): Electron affinity increases
across the period due to increased nuclear charge and
decreasing atomic size. However EA of SA > EA of P, due
Sol 11: The general trend of IE is that it increases while to half-filled orbital stable configuration of P which
going from left to right in a period. However IE is more makes addition of electron difficult.
for an element which has a stable configuration due
to half-filled or full filled orbitals. Hence, IE of group Electronegativity: It increases across the period due
7 > IE of group 8 and IE of group 4 > IE of group 5 to the decrease in atomic size and hence increased
because group 4 and group 7 have full filled and half- effective nuclear charge.
filled orbital respectively.
Sol 16: (i) O < C < S < Se
Sol 12: Electronic configuration of Be: [He] 2s 2
Since, atomic radius increases while going down in a
Electronic configuration of N: [He] 2s 2p2 3 group O < S < Se. Also since atomic radius decreases
across a period O < C .
Electronic configuration of He: [He]
(ii) Paramagnetism will increase with an increase in
We see, that each of those elements have a full filled number of unpaired electrons.
or half-filled orbital which makes their configuration
very stable and because of this, they have no tendency ∴ Ca (0 unpaired electron) Al (1 unpaired) < O (2
to accept an electron and hence they have negative EA unpaired) < N (3 unpaired)
and hence positive value of electron gain enthalpy. Ca < O < N
(iii) The order of polarisability will depend on the order
Sol 13: Polarity of the bond depends upon the of ionic size. The larger the ionic size, more will be
electronegativity difference between the two elements. polarizability.
The more electronegativity difference will be the more
polar the bond will be ∴ Order - F– < Cl– < Br– < I–

(A) P – Cl > P – Br as (EN)Cl > (EN)Br (iv) Al < Mg < Na

= [(EN)Cl – (EN)P] >[(EN)Br – (EN)S] Since electropositive character decreases across a period.

(B) S – O > S – Cl as (EN)O > (EN)Cl (v) P > S > Si > Al > Na

= [(EN)O – (EN)S] >[(EN)Cl – (EN)p] I.E. increases across the period

(C) N – F > N – O as (EN)F > (EN)O I.E. of P > I.E. of S due to stable half-filled orbital
configuration of P
= [(EN)F – (EN)N] >[(EN)F – (EN)O]
(vi) I– > Br– > Cl–

Sol 14: LiCl is hydrated because hydration energy of Ionic radius increases down the period.
Li+ is much higher than Na+ due to small size of Li+ ion. (vii) Cs < Li < C < O < F
Hence, NaCl is amorphous because of low hydration
enthalpy of Na+. IE, increases across the period.
 Chem i str y | 13.41

(viii) F > O > C > N > Be of ns2np6 and have no tendency to either accept or
donate an electron.
Electron affinity increases across a period (EA)C > (EA)N
due to stable configuration of N (half-filled orbital) (vii) (IE)2 of an element is always greater than (IE)1 as
increased amount of energy is needed to remove an
(ix) N > O > F > Na > Mg
3– 2– – + 2+
electron from an already positively charged ion due to
Ionic size decreases with increasing positive charge. increased nuclear charge.
Positive charge means increase in effective nuclear (viii) Radius of cation is lesser than atom as removal of
charge and hence decrease in size negative charge an electron leads to increase in effective nuclear charge
lead to increase in repulsion between electrons thus and hence decrease in size.
increases atomic size
Radius of anion is bigger than atom because addition
(x) I– > Rb+ > Cl– > Na+ > Mg2+ of an electron results in increased coulombic repulsion
Ionic radii decreases with increase in positive charge between electrons causing decrease in effective nuclear
and with decrease in number of shells. charge and hence increase in size.

Sol 17: (i) We know that electronegativity increases Sol : 18 (a) IE1 of F will be higher than that of Cl.
across a period from left to right and decreases Reason: As we go down in a group, atomic radius
while going down in a group. Therefore F is the most increases and consequently the effective nuclear charge
electronegative and Cs is the least electronegative decreases and thus ionization decreases.
element.
(b) EA of O– is greater than O.
(ii) Electronic configuration of C: [He] 2s22p2
Reason: The second electron affinity of oxygen is
Electronic configuration of B: [He] 2s22p1 particularly high because the electron is being forced
(IE), of C > (IE) of B because of increased effective into a small, very electron-dense space.
number charge in C compared to B
(c) Ionic radius of Cl– will be greater than K+.
Electronic configuration of C+: [He] 2s22p1
Reason: Both are isoelectronic species thus ionic radius
Electronic configuration of B+: [He] 2s2 decreases with increase in nuclear charge.
(IE)2 of B > (IE)2 of C as B+ has a stable electronic
configuration due to fully filled s orbital which makes Sol 19: (i) F because EA increases across the period and
removal of electron difficult. decreases down the group
(iii) The outermost electronic configuration of halogens (ii) Cs because IE decreases down the group and
is of the form ns2np5. Thus, by adding one electron, increases across the period.
they can attain noble gas configuration, which makes
addition of electrons very favorable and hence results Sol 20 Covalent radius of K > covalent radius of F
in high electron affinity.
Since, size of K+ < size of K and size of F– > size of F
(iv) The formation of F–(g) from F(g) enables fluorine
to have a stable noble gas configuration. Hence, this
process is exothermic. Sol 21: (i) Nomenclature:

For formation of O2–(g) from O–(g), an extra electron Name of more electronegative element is written at the
needs to be added to an already negative O–(g) which end and ‘ide’ is sufficed to it
will be difficult due to coulombic repulsion between Name of less electronegative element is written first in
electrons making this process endothermic the formula. Eg. I, Br Iodine Bromine
(v) Transition and inner transition metals have variable (ii) If difference is EN > 1.7 ionic bond
oxidation states because ns and (n–1)d orbitals have
If difference is EN < 1.7 covalent bond
very similar energy and there is not a huge jump in the
amount of energy required to remove the third electron (iii) Metallic and non-metallic nature
compared with the first and second (which are removed
Low EN: metallic
from ns orbitals)
high EN: nonmetallic
(vi) Zero group elements (noble gases) are chemically
inert as these have a very stable electronic configuration
1 3 . 4 2 | Periodic Table and Periodicity

(iv) Percentage ionic character in covalent bonds = Sol 27: (i) Anomalous position of hydrogen.
16(XA – XB) + 3.5 (XA – XB)2 (ii) Isotopes were placed in same group despite having
different properties.
(v) Bond length
(iii) Isobars are placed in different groups.
When electronegativity difference increases, bond
length decreases (iv) Metals and non-metals both placed together in
same group.
dA–B = rA + rB – 0.09 |xA – xB |
(v) Some similar elements placed differently.
(vi) Bond strength and stability
(vi) Position of lanthanides and actinides is not properly
It increases with increase in electronegativity difference specified.
Eg. H–F > H–Cl > H–Br > H–I
(vii) Acidic strength of hydrides Sol 28: (i) The nuclear charge on an atom is equal to
the atomic number.
It decreases with increase in electronegativity difference
(ii) The properties of elements are the periodic functions
H – I > H – Br > H – Cl > H – F of their atomic number.
(ix) Acidic nature of oxides
If X0 – XA ≥ 2.3 basic oxides Sol 29: Electron affinity (EA) is the amount of energy
released when a neutral gaseous atom accepts an
X0 – XA < 2.3 acidic oxides electron to form gaseous anion
(x) Nature of hydroxide X(g) + E → X– (g) + EA
In AOH, if (EN)A > 1.7, acidic EA increase across the period in periodic table due to
(EN)A < 1.7, basic increased effective nuclear charge with the exception
of elements having stable configurations (due to half
or full filled orbitals) for which EA is high than adjacent
Sol 22: Atomic size: It is the distance between the centre
elements. EA decreases down the group due to
of the nucleus and the outermost shell containing
decrease in effective nuclear charge.
electrons.
Ionic size: It is the distance between the centre of the
Sol 30: (i) Number of shells: IE decreases with increase
nucleus and the outermost shell containing electrons
in number of shells.
in an ion.
(ii) Effective Nuclear Charge: IE increases with increase
in effective nuclear charge
Sol 23: BaO is more basic because (EN)Ba < (EN)Mg
(iii) Shielding effect: The more will be the shielding
Sol 24 This statement is wrong since the electronegativity effect. Less will be the IE.
decreases while going down in a group. Therefore, (iv) The elements which have half-filled or fully filled
basic strength should increase. orbitals have higher IE due to their stable electronic
configuration.
Sol 25: (i) CsOH: basic ((EN)Cs < 1.7) (v) Penetrative Power: In any atom, the s orbital is
(ii) IOH: acidic (EN)I > 1.7) nearer to the nucleus than p, d or f orbitals. Therefore,
greater energy is required to remove an electron from s
(iii) Sr(OH)2: basic ((EN)Sr < 1.7) orbital. Decreasing order of IE is:
(iv) Se(OH)2: acidic ((EN)Se > 1.7) s>p>d>f
(v) FrOH: basic ((EN)Fr < 1.7)
(vi) BrOH: acidic ((EN)Br > 1.7) Sol 31: (i) Al, due to its intermediate electronegativity.
(ii) F,due to highest effective nuclear charge and least
Sol 26: Acidic nature: N2O5 > SO3 > CO2 <> CO > CaO number of shells.

Acidic strength decreases with increase in electronegativity (iii) Xe, It is a group zero element (a noble gas).
difference. Also, CO is neutral and CaO is basic.
 Chem i str y | 13.43

Exercise 2 But after removal of an electron O will have a stable,

half-filled orbital configuration and therefore, its IE will
Single Correct Choice Type be more than F+. Hence order O > F > N > C

Sol 1: (D) I– will have the largest ionic radius increase Sol 12: (C) Electron affinity is higher for Cl due to its
further, we know that ionic radius will down the group low electron density.
and decrease across a period. And for isoelectronic
species, the ionic radius will increase with increase in (IE)2 of alkali metals shows a jump because they have
negative charge stable noble gas configuration in +1 oxidation state
(IE)2 of halogens is zero because halogens have noble
Sol 2: (D) In group 13, the stability of +2 oxidation gas configuration in –1 oxidation state
state will increase and stability of +4 oxidation state will He has maximum ionisation energy due to its small size
decrease down the group due to inert pair effect, which and fully filled orbital configuration.
is negligible in Ge and most significant in Pb.

Sol 13: (C) The element isoelectronic with O2 is sulphur (s).

Sol 3: (B) We check the atomic radius of all the elements
in the four options. Its configuration in group state [Ne] 3s23p43d0

For option (B), we find that the atomic mass of the Outer shell configuration in ground state
middle elements is not equal to the average of atomic
mass of other 2 elements.
3s 3px 3py 3pz 3dxy 3dyz 3dxz 3dz2 3dx2 –y2

Sol 4: (C) Lothar Meyer used atomic volume for plotting Outer shell configuration in second excited state (all
Lothar Mayer’s volume curves. electrons get unpaired

Sol 5: (B) Majority of low atomic number non metallic

elements are gases which are placed at top right hand 3s 3py
side.
Sol 14: (B) Metallic radii of transition elements first
Sol 6: (D) Since, here s orbital is filled last, it is a s-block decreases due to increase in effective nuclear charge,
element but after since the electrons are filled in (n – 1)d orbital,
after a few elements, the nuclear charge on ns electrons
remains almost constant due to extra stability.
Sol 7: (D) All the reasons given are correct.

Sol 15: (A) If difference in electronegativity > 1.7, ionic

Sol 8: (B) The last electron in each period is filled in np
bond
orbital which is the same shell, i.e. same energy level.

Sol 16: (C) In covalent bond, there is actual bond

Sol 9: (C) This is a consequence of inert pair effect,
formation therefore they are the strongest of allowed by
according to which in heavier p-block elements, the s
hydrogen bonding. Vander waal’s interactions are least
orbitals become very close to nucleus and thus become
strong because they are developed due to momentary
relatively inert and are not removed.
dipole interactions.

Sol 10: (C) p-block elements can display a range of

Sol 17: (C) The properties of other three pairs resemble
oxidation states due to availability of electrons in both
due to diagonal relationship between them (identical
of s and p orbitals and also possibility of attaining noble
charge 1 size ratio)
gas configuration by adding electrons.

Sol 18: (D) The added electron will have no tendency

Sol 11: (C) We note that order of (IE) is F > N > O > C
to go to the higher energy level or sublevel as this will
Here (IE) of N > (IE) of O because N has a stable half- further increase the energy of the system. Alkali metals
filled orbital configuration and also IE increases across have no tendency to accept electrons due to low
a period. effective nuclear charge.
1 3 . 4 4 | Periodic Table and Periodicity

Atoms with exactly half filled configuration will have Sol 28: (A) Electronegativity increases across a period.
low (but not zero) tendency to accept electrons.
Sol 29: (C) The valency first increases as the number of
Sol 19: (B) Energy required = IP 1 + IP2 unpaired electrons increases, but then starts decreasing
as electrons begin to get paired.
= (178 + 3481kcalmol−1 ) = 526kcalmol−1

Sol 30: (A) Electronegativity of carbon is least.

Sol 20: (C) Configuration = 1s2 2s2 2b2 3s2 3p6 4s2
Since last filled shell is 4 and it contains 2 electrons,
Sol 31: (B) Elements are arranged on the basis of
4th period and 2nd group
increasing atomic number (i.e. increased nuclear
Number of neutrons= Atomic weight – Atomic Number charge)
= 40 -20 = 20
For this element this the most stable oxidation state will Sol 32: (B) Metallic character decreases across the
be +2 as in +2 oxidation state. It will attain a therefore period and increases down the group
formula of metal oxide = Mo
Sol 33: (A) Due to screening effect of inner electrons,
Sol 21: (C) (Given answer = a =wrong ) the effective nuclear charge on the valence electrons
decreases which lowers the IP.
For R, after removal of an electron, a fully filled stable
configuration is achieved which increases its (IE)2
above all other 3 elements. Sol 34: (C) IE does not vary in a regular manner as IE is
higher for elements which have stable half-filled or fully
filled configurations compared to their adjacent elements,
Sol 22: (B) Nitrogen has a configuration of [He]2s2 2p3,
which violates the general trend that IE increases across a
which is stable because of the half-filled p- orbital and
period. All other statements are correct.
thus, it has more IE than Oxygen.

Sol 35: (C) Just check the electronic configuration for

Sol 23: (D) All the given reasons are correct.
each elements
In : 1s22s22p63s23p63d104s24p64d105s25p1 (iv)
Sol 24: (C) With the removal of an electron, the further
removal of electron becomes increasingly difficult due Pd : 1s22s22p63s23p63d104s24p64d10 (iii)
to increase in effective nuclear charge and decrease in
Ca : 1s22s22p63s23p64s2 (i)
size. Hence I1 < I2 < I3
Cu : 1s22s22p63s23p63d104s1 (ii)
Sol 25: (B) Only (B) and (C) order is wrong
Sol 36: (C) Just check the configuration of each
F > O, since IP increases across the period
element, taking n = 4
N > O, as N has a stable half filled configuration
Chromium : [Ar] 3d54s1
P > S, as P has a stable half filled configuration
Copper : [Ar] 3d104s1
Be > B, as Be has a stable fully filled configuration.
Krypton : [Ar] 3d104s24p6
Bromine : [Ar] 3d104s24p5
Sol 26: (A) If difference between (IP)1, and (IP)2 > 16 eV,
then element will not form a dipositive ion.
Sol 37: (A) Based on facts
Sol 27: (A) Inconsistency in question, taking x–2, no Helium has highest ionization potential.
correct option
Fluorine has highest electronegativity.
No. of electrons in X–2 = 18 + 8 = 26
Technitium is an artificial element.
Atomic number of X0 = 26 – 2 = 24
Lithium has a very high reducing ability.
No. of electrons in Y–3 = 18 + 3 = 21
Atomic number of Y = 21 + 3 = 24
 Chem i str y | 13.45

Sol 38: (C) Basic character decreases across a period. Sol 11: (C) Assertion is true but reason is false.
N is half-filled (1s2 2s22p3) and therefore more stable
Sol 39: (A) atomic radius, and Atomic size, decreases and hence energy required to lose electron is greater.
across a period electronegativity increases across a
period. Effective nuclear charge increases across a
period
Sol 12: (B) NO+ , C 22− , CN− and N2 . All have fourteen
electrons.

Previous Years’ Questions Sol 13: (A) Both are isoelectronic and have same bond
order.
Sol 1: (D) As we go down the group, inertness of ns2
pair increase. Hence, tendency to exhibit +2 oxidation Sol 14: (C) Correct basic strength is
state increases and that of +4 oxidation state decreases.
NH3 > PH3 > AsH3 > BiH3
Sol 2: (A) First I.E. of N > First I.E. of O.
Sol 15: (B) Follow the periodic trends

Sol 3: (D) All the noble gases occupy the peaks of I.E.
Sol 16: (C) Option itself is the reason
curve.
Z
Sol 17: (D) For isoelectronic species higher the ratio,
Sol 4: (D) Electronegativity increases on going from
smaller the ionic radius e
left to right in a period. Thus electronegativity of
F > O > N > Cl. Z for 2− 8
O = = 0.8
e 10
Sol 5: (D) Nuclear charge per electron is greater in P5+. − 9
F= = 0.9
Therefore its size is smaller. 10

Sol 6: (C) Element belongs to d-block is unnilhexium + 11

Na= = 1.1
(Unh)106. 10
+ 12
Sol 7: (C) I represents Li Mg 2= = 1.2
10
II represents K 13
+
Al3= = 1.3
III represents Br 10
IV represents I
V represents He Sol 18: (B) Greater charge and small size of cation
cause more polarization and more covalent is that
So, amongst these, II represents most reactive metal compound.
and V represents least reactive non-metal.
Sol 19: (D) Across a period metallic strength decreases
Sol 8: (D) Positive ions will be smaller than parent atoms. & down the group it increases.

Sol 9: (E) Assertion is false but reason is true. Sol 20: (C) As the size of central atom increases lone
More is the electron affinity, greater is the oxidizing pair bond pair repulsions increases so, bond angle
character. decreases.

Sol 10: (A) Both assertion and reason are true and Sol 21: (C) CaCO3 → CaO+ CO2
Basic Acidic
reason is the correct explanation of assertion.
I.E. of N is more than that of xO as well as yC. Sol 22: (C) Order of increasing
∆HIE : Ba < Ca < Se < S < Ar
1
1 3 . 4 6 | Periodic Table and Periodicity

Ba < Ca ; Se < S : On moving top to bottom in a group, (vi) As < P < S < Cl
size increases. So ionisation energy decreases.
EN decreases down the group and increases across the
Ar: Maximum value of ionisation energy, since it is an period
inert gas.
(vii) LiI < LiBr < LiCl
Ionic character decreases with decrease in
Sol 23: (B) Na → Na+ + e− Ist I.E.
electronegativity difference.
Na+ + e− → Na Electron gain enthalpy of Na+
(viii) Li+ < Na+ < K+ < Rb+ < Cs+
Because reaction is reverse so then.
Mobility of ions increases down the group
∆Heg =
−5.1 eV.
(ix) Cs < Rb < K < Na < Li

Sol 24: (C) These are isoelectronic species. Size of hydrated radii decreases down the group

As negative charge increases, ionic radius increases. (x) Ba2+ < Sr2+ < Ca2+ < Mg2+ < Be2+
Extent of hydration decreases down the group

JEE Advanced/Boards Sol 3: Inert gases have an electronic configuration

of ns2np6 which is an extremely stable configuration
Exercise 1 due to all fully filled orbitals. Hence, they have no
tendency to combine with other atoms and change this
Sol 1: 101: Unnilunium configuration, so they are monoatomic.
102: Unnilbium
Sol 4: The third period contains 8 elements as the
103: Unniltrium
energy of 3d orbital is more than 4s orbital. 3d orbital
104: Unnilquadium is filled during the fourth period making the number of
105: Unnilpentium elements in third period equal to 8.

106: Unnilhexium
Sol 5: (A) F– < Cl– < S2– < P3–
107: Unnilseptium
Ionic radius increase with increase in number of shells
108: Unniloctium and negative charge
109: Unnilennium (B) Al3+ < Mg2+ < Na+ < F– < O2–
Ionic radius decrease with increasing positive charge
Sol 2: (i) Pb4+ < Pb2+ < Pb
(C) Mg2+ < Na+ < K+
Size decreases with increasing positive charge.
Ionic radius decrease with increase in positive charge
(ii) Na < Al < Mg < Si and increase with increase in number of shells.
IP increases across a period.
More for Mg because of its stable half filled orbital Sol 6: We have,
configuration.
Internuclear distance
(iii) NiO < MgO < Sr < Rb2O < Cs2O
dH–Cl = rH + rCl – 0.09 | rH – rCl |
Basic character increases down a group and decreases
10
across a period. Now, rCl = Å=5Å
2
Less for transition metal oxides
2
rH = Å=1Å
(iv) Be(OH)2 < Mg(OH)2 < Ca(OH)2 < Ba(OH)2 2
Basic character increases down the group. xCl – xH = 3 – 2.1 = 0.9
(v) Cl < Ar < K < Ca
– + 2+
∴ dH–Cl = 5 + 1 – 0.09 × 0.9 = 5.919
Same configuration in all.
IE is decided by effective nuclear charge Hence, internuclear distance = 5.919 Å
 Chem i str y | 13.47

Sol 7: We have nuclear charge will ensure that atomic size of Gallium
is equal to the atomic size of Aluminium. Going further
dAs–Cl = rAs + rCl – 0.09 | ENCl – ENAs |
down from Ga to In- d-block will be there for all
Here, dAs–Cl = 2.20 Å elements.
rCl = 0.99Å Hence, atomic radii will increase as usual.
ENCl – ENe = 0
XM IE + EA 4 + 13
∴ rAs = dAs–Cl – rCl = 1.21 Å Sol 12: We have Xp = = =
2.8 5.6 5.6
Hence, SBCR of As is 1.21 Å
⇒ XP = 3.03

Sol 8: (A) We have Pt–Cl distance = 2.32Å from the

Sol 13: In isoelectronic species, the increase in atomic
figure, we have
radii means an increase in the effective nuclear charge
Cl–Cl distance = 2 × (Pt –Cl distance) = 4.64 Å on outermost shell electrons, as the number of electrons
are the same. This increase in effective nuclear charge
NH3 means that that the valence electrons are more firmly
bound to the nucleus, hence it results in a decrease in
ionic/atomic radii.
Cl Pt Cl

Sol 14: Ionisation energy if Cu > Ag is expected as

NH3 ionization energy decreases down the group. But after
Ag the 4f electrons start getting filled and since F
Hence Cl–Cl distance is 4.64 Å
orbital is the least penetrative it offers least screening
(B) Here, since this is a square planar geometry. Therefore, and hence effective nuclear charge increases while
Cl–Pt–Cl angle will be equal to 90º going across lanthanoid series. This phenomona is
called lanthanoid contraction and due to this (IE)Ag <
NH3 (IE)Au. As Au has more effective nuclear charge than Ag.

Pt Sol 15: Electronic configuration of C = [He] 2s22p2

Cl NH3
Electronic configuration of B = [He] 2s22p1
Cl (IE)1 of C > (IE)1 of B as effective nuclear charge of B is
greater than that for C
Therefore, Cl–Cl distance = 2 Pt – Cl distance is 3.28 Å
Electronic configuration of B+ = [He] 2s2
Hence Cl–Cl distance is 3.28 Å
Electronic configuration of C+ = [He] 2s22p1
Sol 9: Since , we know that size of cation is smaller than (IE)2 of B > (IE)2 of C as B have a very stable fully filled
atomic size and size of anion is larger than atomic size. orbital configuration which makes removal of electron
Therefore atomic radius of K > 1.34 Å and atomic radius extremely difficult.
of F < 1.34 Å
Sol 16: Ionisation potential is the amount of energy
Sol 10: Noble gases are chemically inert and are required to remove the most loosely bound electron
therefore monoatomic so, it is not possible to calculate from an isolated gaseous atom M(g) + IE  M+(g) + e–
covalent radius of noble gases, instead, for noble
gases, Vander waals radius is calculated which is always Sol 17: Electronic configuration of K = [Ar] 4s1
greater than the radii of precedent halogens (which is
covalent radius) Electronic configuration of Cu = [Ar] 3d104s1
We see that on both K and Cu have the same outer
Sol 11: While going from Aluminium to Gallium, 3d shell of 4s1 but for Cu the effective nuclear charge will
electrons are filled which poorly screen the outermost be more than K, as the 3d orbital do not provide very
electrons from nuclear charge hence, even though the good screening from nuclear charge, therefore, its (IE)
number of shells increases, an increase in effective is high.
1 3 . 4 8 | Periodic Table and Periodicity

Electronic configuration of K+ = [Ar] Sol 4: (C) Will from a diatomic molecule most readily
because it has an outer shell configuration of 2s2 2p2
Electronic configuration of Cu+ = [Ar] 3d10
and it needs just 1 electron to attain noble gas
We note that K+ has a very stable noble gas configuration configuration, which it can achieve by sharing an
compared to Cu whose configuration is not so stable. electron with another atom to form a diatomic module.
Hence, (IE)2 of K is higher than (IE)2 of Cu.
Sol 5: (A) We know,
Sol 18: (i) For Ni, sum of four ionisation energies
= 11.29 kJ/mol EA + IP
EN =
2
For Pt, sum of four ionisation energies = 9.36 kJ/mol
EA + E2
Therefore, Ni can only exhibit +2 oxidation state. ⇒ E1 = ⇒ EA = 2E1 − E2
2
Hence, most stable oxidation state for Ni: +2
Sol 6: (A) This is ns2np 4 configuration which is the
Most stable oxidation state for Pt: +2, +4 configuration of ground state of S and Cl+ .
(ii) Pt can easily form compounds in +4 oxidation state
as (IE)1 + (IE)2 + (IE)3 + (IE)4 for Pt is not so high. Sol 7: (C) O − has no natural tendency to accept
electrons because of coulombic repulsion between
Sol 19: Electronic configuration of Mg: [Ne] 3s2 electrons , thus to add an electron to O − , we have to
give it energy from an external source.
Electronic configuration of Na: [Ne] 3s1
Mg has a stable fully filled orbital configuration. Sol 8: (C) The process is
Hence (IE), of Mg is high SE IE
Na(s) → Na(g)  → Na+ (g)
Electronic configuration of Mg+: [Ne] 3s1
Therefore , total energy =SE +IE
Electronic configuration of Na+: [Ne]
Na+ has an extremely stable noble gas configuration
Sol 9: (C) The addition of an extra electron to O–
which makes removal of electron very difficult.
requires addition of energy because of the coulombic
Hence, (IE)2 of Na is high repulsion offered by the extra electron to the incoming
electron. For other processes, energy is evolved. As far,
Sol 20: Na+ has higher value of IE because for Na due all of them, EA is positive.
to removal of an electron, effective nuclear charge is
much more compared to Ne, as there are more protons Sol 10: (B) N2 has no bond polarity and is a very neutral
in Na+ than Ne for same number of p electrons. molecule compared to CN–, which has a net negative
charge and therefore will be much more reactive.

Exercise 2
Previous Years’ Questions
Single Correct Choice Type
Sol 1: (B) Among isoelectronic species, greater the
Sol 1 (A) X has a stable half-filled orbital configuration
negative charge, greater the ionic size hence
which makes removal of electron difficult and increases
its IE. F– < O2– < N3–

Sol 2: (B) In a group, ionization energy decreases down

Sol 2: (A) This is the true position of lanthanoids. They
the group:
are kept below the periodic table to make it more
compact. Be > Mg > Ca

Sol 3: (B) Similar ionic potentials is the main cause of Sol 3: (B) Be– is the least stable ion, Be(1s22s2) has stable
diagonal relationship. electronic configuration, addition of electron decreases
stability.
 Chem i str y | 13.49

Sol 4: (B, C, D) Incorrect: Electrons are not filled in Sol 10: Zn : 3d10 4s2 , Cu : 3d10 , 4s1
sub-energy levels s, p, d and f in the same sequence.
The first ionization energy is greater for Zn but reverse
(B) Correct: No. of valence shell electrons usually is true for 2nd ionization energy.
determine the stable valency state of an elements.
(C) Correct: Physical and chemical properties of Sol 11: Li+ < Al3+ < Mg2+ < K+
elements are periodic function of atomic number which Size decreases from left to right in a period and it
is the basis of modern, long form, of periodic table. increases from top to bottom in a group. Variation is
(D) Correct: Relative ionicity of the bond between any more pronounced in group than in period.
two elements is function of electronegativity difference
of the bonded atoms which in turn has periodic trend Sol 12: (A) NO − (16 electron system)
in long form of Periodic table.
Bond order = 2.

Sol 5: (A, B) Correct: For greater solubility, hydration NO⊕ , CN− and N2 are isoelectronic with CO therefore
energy must be greater than lattice energy. all have same bond order (= 3)

(B) Correct: Greater lattice energy discourage Hence (A) is correct.

dissolution of salt.
(C) Incorrect: When a salt dissolve, energy is required to Sol 13: (C) The lower oxidation states for the group 14
break the lattice, which comes from hydration process. elements are more stable for the heavier member of
the group due to inert pair effect.
(D) Incorrect: Explained in (A).

Sol 14: Na, F show only one non-zero oxidation state.

Sol 6: (True) In a group, size increases from top to
bottom.
Sol 15: (B) The increasing order of atomic radii of the
following Group 13 elements is Ga < Al < Tl < In
Sol 7: (False) Ionization potential decreases down the
group but this is not the only criteria of reducing power.

Sol 8: (i) Mg2+, O2–, Na+ and F– are all isoelectronic, has
10 electrons each. Among isoelectronic species, the
order of size is cation < neutral< anion.
Also, between cations, higher the charge, smaller the
size and between anions, greater the negative charge,
larger the size. Therefore,
Ionic radii = Mg2+< Na+ < F– < O2–
(ii) First ionization energy increases from left to right
in a period. However, exception occurs between group
2 and 13 and group 15 and 16 where trend is reversed
on the grounds of stability of completely filled and
completely half-filled orbitals. Therefore : Ionization
energy (1st) : Na < Al < Mg < Si
(iii) If the atoms are from same period, bond length
is related directly to atomic radius. Therefore, Bond
length : N2 < O2 < F2 < Cl2

Sol 9: Cl–, S2– , Ca2+, Ar

Size : Ca2+ < Ar < Cl– < S2–
Explained in (i), question 1.