3

Classification of Elements
and Periodicity in
Properties
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
Q. 1 Consider the isoelectronic species, Na + , Mg2+ , F – and O2– . The correct
order of increasing length of their radii is
(a) F– < O2– < Mg 2+ < Na+ (b) Mg 2+ < Na+ < F– < O2–
(c) O2 - < F– < Na+ < Mg 2+ (d) O2– < F– < Mg 2+ < Na+
1
Ans. (b) In case of isoelectronic species ionic radii µ
atomic number
The ionic radii increases as the positive charge decreases or the negative charge
increases.
Ion Mg 2+ < Na + < F- < O2 -
Atomic number (12) (11) (9) (8)

Q. 2 Which of the following is not an actinoid?

(a) Curium ( Z = 96) (b) Californium ( Z = 98)
(c) Uranium ( Z = 92) (d) Terbium ( Z = 65)
Ans. (d) Elements with atomic number, Z = 90 to 103 are called actinoids. Thus, terbium
(Z = 65) is not an actinoid. Terbium belong to lanthanoids.

Q. 3 The order of screening effect of electrons of s, p, d and f orbitals of a

given shell of an atom on its outer shell electrons is
(a) s > p > d > f (b) f > d > p > s (c) p < d < s > f (d) f > p > s > d
K Thinking Process
To solve this question, keep in mind that shielding effect represent the repulsive force felt by the
valence shell from the electrons presents in the inner shells.
Ans. (a) For the same shell, screening effect decreases in the order s > p > d > f
Q. 4 The first ionisation enthalpies of Na, Mg, Al and Si are in the order
(a) Na < Mg > Al < Si (b) Na > Mg > Al > Si
(c) Na < Mg < Al < Si (d) Na > Mg > Al < Si
Ans. (a) Follow the following steps to solve out such problems
Steps Method Apply
1
Step I Write the electronic configuration 11Na = [Ne] 3s , 12 Mg = [Ne] 3s 2
to find position in the periodic
13 Al = [Ne] 3s 2 3p1, 14 Si = [Ne] 3s 2 3p2
table
Step II Arrange them in the order as they 11 12 13 14
Na Mg Al Si
are in the periodic table
Step III Follow the general trend and also The IP increases along a period from left to
keep in mind the exception right but IP of Mg is higher than that of Al
due to completely filled 3s orbital in Mg.
Step IV On the above basis find the order The order of IP is Na < Mg > Al < Si. Thus,
option (a) is the correct.

Q. 5 The electronic configuration of gadolinium (Atomic number 64) is

(a) [Xe] 4f 3 5d 5 6s2 (b) [ Xe] 4f 7 5d 2 6s1
(c) [ Xe] 4f 7 5d 1 6s2 (d) [ Xe] 4f 8 5d 6 6s2
Ans. (c) The electronic configuration of La (Z = 57 ) is [Xe] 5d 1 6s 2 . Therefore, further addition of
electrons occurs in the lower energy 4f-orbital till it is exactly half-filled at Eu (Z = 63)
Thus, the electronic configuration of Eu is [Xe] 4 f 7 6s 2 . Thereafter, addition of next
electron does not occur in the more stable exactly half-filled 4 f 7 shell but occurs in the
little higher energy 5d-orbital. Thus, the electronic configuration of Gd (Z = 64) is
[Xe] 4 f 7 5d 1 6s 2 .

Q. 6 The statement that is not correct for periodic classification of elements is

(a) The properties of elements are periodic function of their atomic numbers
(b) Non-metallic elements are less in number than metallic elements
(c) For transition elements, the 3d-orbitals are filled with electrons after 3p-orbitals
and before 4s-orbitals
(d) The first ionisation enthalpies of elements generally increase with increase in
atomic number as we go along a period
Ans. (c) In case of transition elements (or any elements), the order of filling of electrons in various
orbital is 3 p < 4s < 3d . Thus, 3d orbital is filled when 4s orbital gets completely filled.

Q. 7 Among halogens, the correct order of amount of energy released in

electron gain (electron gain enthalpy) is
(a) F > Cl > Br > I (b) F < Cl < Br < I (c) F < Cl > Br > I (d) F < Cl < Br < I
Ans. (c) As we move from Cl to I, the electron gain enthalpy (i.e., energy released in electron
gain) become less and less negative due to a corresponding increase in the atomic
size.
However, the electron gain enthalpy of F is less negative than that of Cl due to its small
size. Thus, the negative electron gain enthalpy follows the order
F < Cl > Br >I
Q. 8 The period number in the long form of the periodic table is equal to
(a) magnetic quantum number of any element of the period
(b) atomic number of any element of the period
(c) maximum principal quantum number of any element of the period
(d) maximum azimuthal quantum number of any element of the period
Ans. (c) Since each period starts with the filling of electrons in a new principal quantum
number, therefore, the period number in the long form of the periodic table refers to the
maximum principal quantum number of any element in the period.
Period number = maximum n of any element (where, n = principal quantum number).

Q. 9 The elements in which electrons are progressively filled in 4 f -orbital

are called
(a) actinoids (b) transition elements
(c) lanthanoids (d) halogens
Ans. (c) The elements in which electrons are progressively filled in 4f-orbital are called
lanthanoids. Lanthanoids consist of elements from Z = 58 (cerium) to 71 (lutetium).

Q. 10 Which of the following is the correct order of size of the given species
(a) I > I– > I+ (b) I+ > I– > I
(c) I > I+ > I– (d) I– > I > I+
Ans. (d) Anion formed after the gain of electron to the neutral atom and cation formed after the
lose of electron from outer shell. Hence, cation has smaller size but anion has bigger
size than its neutral atom. Thus, I– > I > I+.

Q. 11 The formation of oxide ion O2– (g), from oxygen atom requires first an
exothermic and then an endothermic step as shown below
O ( g ) + e - ® O - ( g ); D H s = - 141 kJ mol -1
O – ( g ) + e - ® O 2 ( g ); D H s = + 780 kJ mol -1
Thus, process of formation of O 2- in gas phase is unfavourable even
though O 2- is isoelectronic with neon. It is due to the fact that
(a) oxygen is more electronegative
(b) addition of electron in oxygen results in larger size of the ion
(c) electron repulsion outweighs the stability gained by achieving noble gas
configuration
(d) O- ion has comparatively smaller size than oxygen atom
Ans. (c) Although O 2- has noble gas configuration isoelectronic with neon but its formation is
unfavourable due to the strong electronic repulsion between the negatively charged
O - ion and the second electron being added.
Hence, the electron repulsion outweighs the stability gained by achieving noble gas
configuration.
Q. 12 Comprehension given below is followed by some multiple choice
questions. Each question has one correct option. Choose the correct
option. In the modern periodic table, elements are arranged in order of
increasing atomic numbers which is related to the electronic
configuration. Depending upon the type of orbitals receiving the last
electron, the elements in the periodic table have been divided into
four blocks, viz s, p, d and f.
The modern periodic table consists of 7 periods and 18 groups. Each
period begins with the filling of a new energy shell. In accordance
with the Aufbau principle, the seven periods (1 to 7) have 2, 8, 8, 18,
18, 32 and 32 elements respectively.
The seventh period is still incomplete. To avoid the periodic table
being too long, the two series of f -block elements, called lanthanoids
and actinoids are placed at the bottom of the main body of the
periodic table
(i) The element with atomic number 57 belongs to
(a) s - block (b) p - block (c) d - block (d) f - block
Ans. (c) The element with atomic number 57 belongs to d-block element as the last electron
enters the 5d-orbital against the aufbau principle. This anomalous behaviour can be
explained on the basis of greater stability of the xenon (inert gas) core.
After barium (Z = 56) , the addition of the next electron (i.e., 57th) should occur in
4f-orbital in accordance with aufbau principle. This will however, tend to destabilize the
xenon core (Z = 54), [Kr](4d 10 4f 0 5s 2 5 p6 5d 0 ) since the 4f-orbitals lie inside the core.
Therefore, the 57th electron prefers to enter 5d-orbital which lies outside the xenon core
and whose energy is only slightly higher than that of 4f-orbital. In doing so, the stability
conferred on the atom due to xenon core more than compensates the slight instability
caused by the addition of one electron to the higher energy 5d- orbital instead of the
lower energy 4f- orbital.
Thus, the outer electronic configuration of La(Z = 57 ) is 5d 1 6 s 2 rather than the
expected 4 f1 6 s 2 .
(ii) The last element of the p-block in 6th period is represented by the
outermost electronic configuration.
(a) 7s2 7p 6 (b) 5f 14 6d 10 7s2 7p 0
(c) 4f 14 5d 10 6s2 6p 6 (d) 4f 14 5d 10 6s2 6p 4
Ans. (c) Each period starts with the filling of electrons in a new principal energy shell.
Therefore, 6th period starts with the filling of 6s-orbital and ends when 6 p-orbitals are
completely filled.
In between 4f and 5d-orbitals are filled in accordance with aufbau principle. Thus, the
outmost electronic configuration of the last element of the p-block in the 6th period is
6s 2 4f14 5d 10 6 p6 or 4f14 5d 10 6s 2 6 p6 .
(iii) Which of the elements whose atomic numbers are given below, cannot
be accommodated in the present set up of the long form of the
periodic table?
(a)107 (b) 118 (c) 126 (d) 102
Ans. (c) The long form of the periodic table contain element with atomic number 1 to 118.
 (iv) The electronic configuration of the element which is just above the
element with atomic number 43 in the same group is ......... .
(a) 1s2 2s2 2p 6 3s2 3p 6 3d5 4s2
(b) 1s2 2s2 2p 6 3s2 3p 6 3d5 4s3 4p6
(c) 1s2 2s2 2p 6 3s2 3p 6 3d 6 4s2
(d) 1s2 2s2 2p 6 3s2 3p 6 3d 7 4s2
Ans. (a) The fifth period begins with Rb (Z = 37 ) and ends at Xe (Z = 54). Thus, the element with
Z = 43 lies in the 5th period. Since, the 4th period has 18 elements, therefore, the
atomic number of the element which lies immediately above the element with atomic
number 43 is 43 -18 = 25 .
Now, the electronic configuration of element with Z = 25 is
1s 2 2 s 2 2 p6 3s 2 3 p6 3d 5 4s 2 (i.e., Mn).
(v) The elements with atomic numbers 35, 53 and 85 are all ......... .
(a) noble gases (b) halogens
(c) heavy metals (d) light metals
Ans. (b) Each period ends with a noble gas. The atomic number of noble gases (i.e., group 18
elements) are 2, 10, 18, 36, 54 and 86. Therefore, elements with atomic numbers
35 (36 - 1), 53 (54 - 1), and 85 (86 - 1), lie in a group before noble gases, i.e., halogens
(group 17) elements.
Thus, the elements with atomic number 35, 53 and 85 are all belongs to halogens.

Q. 13 Electronic configuration of four elements A, B, C, and D are given

below
A. 1s 2 2s 2 2p 6 B. 1 s 2 2s 2 2p 4
C. 1s 2 2s 2 2p 6 3s 1 D. 1s 2 2s 2 2p 5
Which of the following is the correct order of increasing tendency to
gain electron?
(a) A < C < B < D (b) A < B < C < D
(c) D < B < C < A (d) D < A < B < C
Ans. (a) Electronic configuration of elements indicate that A is a noble gas (i.e., Ne), B is
oxygen (group 16), C is sodium metal (group 1) and D is fluorine (group 17).
(i) Noble gases have no tendency to gain electrons since all their orbitals are
completely filled. Thus, element A has the least electron gain enthalpy.
(ii) Since, element D has one electron less and element B has two electrons less than
the corresponding noble gas configuration, hence, element D has the highest
electron, gain enthalpy followed by element B
(iii) Since, element C has one electron in the s-orbital and hence needs one more
electron to complete it, therefore, electron gain enthalpy of C is less than that of
element B. Combining all the facts given above, the electron gain enthalpies of the
four elements increase in the order A < C < B < D.
Multiple Choice Questions (More Than One Options)
Q. 14 Which of the following elements can show covalencey greater than 4?
(a) Be (b) P (c) S (d) B
Ans. (b, c)
Elements Be and B lie in the 2nd period. They can have a maximum of 8 electrons in the
valence shell. In other words, they can have a maximum covalency of 8/2 = 4.
However, elements P and S have vacant d- orbitals in their respective valence shells and
hence can accommodate more than 8 electrons in their respective valence shell. In other
words, they can show a covalency of more than 4.

Q. 15 Those elements impart colour to the flame on heating in it, the atoms
of which require low energy for the ionisation (i.e., absorb energy in
the visible region of spectrum). The elements of which of the
following groups will impart colour to the flame ?
(a) 2 (b) 13 (c) 1 (d) 17
Ans. (a, c)
The elements of group 1 (alkali metals) and group 2 (alkaline earth metals) have 1 and 2
electrons respectively in their valence shells and hence have low ionisation energies. In
other words, elements of group 1 and 2 imparts colour to the flame.
Group 1 Colour Group 2 Colour
Li Crimson Ca Brick-red
Na Yellow Sr Crimson red
K Pale violet – –
Rb Red violet Ba Apple green
Cs Blue Ra Crimson

Q. 16 Which of the following sequences contain atomic numbers of only

representative elements?
(a) 3, 33, 53, 87 (b) 2, 10, 22, 36
(c) 7, 17, 25, 37, 48 (d) 9, 35, 51, 88
Ans. (a, d)
Elements of s and p-block elements are called representative elements. Elements of d-block
(Z = 21-30; 39-48; 57 and 72-80; 89 and 104-112) are called transition elements while those
of f-block (with Z = 58-71 and Z = 90-103) are called inner transition elements.
With reference to this division, elements listed under option (a) and option (d) are all
representative elements.

Q. 17 Which of the following elements will gain one electron more readily in
comparison to other elements of their group?
(a) S(g) (b) Na(g) (c) O(g) (d) Cl(g)

Ans. (a, d)
Chlorine has the highest tendency to gain one electron because by doing so, it acquires the
stable electronic configuration of the nearest noble gas, i.e., argon. Sulphur and oxygen
belong to group 16 but the size of oxygen is much smaller than that of sulphur.
 As a result, when an electron is added to them, the electron-electron repulsions in the
smaller 2p- subshell of oxygen are comparatively stronger than those present in the bigger
3p-subshell of sulphur. Therefore, S has a higher tendency to gain an electron than O.
Na, on the other hand, has only one electron in the valence shell and hence has a strong
tendency to lose rather than gain one electron.

Q. 18 Which of the following statements are correct?

(a) Helium has the highest first ionisation enthalpy in the periodic table
(b) Chlorine has less negative electron gain enthalpy than fluorine
(c) Mercury and bromine are liquids at room temperature
(d) In any period, atomic radius of alkali metal is the highest
Ans. (a, c, d)
Chlorine has more negative electron gain enthalpy than fluorine. Therefore, all other given
statements are correct.

Q. 19 Which of the following sets contain only isoelectronic ions?

(a) Zn 2+ , Ca 2+ , Ga3 + , Al3 + (b) K + , Ca 2+ , Sc3 + , Cl-
(c) P3 - , S2- , Cl- , K + (d) Ti4 + , Ar, Cr3 + , V5 +
K Thinking Process
Isoelectronic represents those species which have same number of electrons.
Ans. (b, c)
(a) Zn2+ (30 - 2 = 28), Ca 2+ (20 - 2 = 18), Ga 3+ (31 - 3 = 28), Al 3+ (13 - 3 = 10).
These species have different number of electrons and hence are not isoelectronic ions.
(b) K + (19 - 1 = 18), Ca 2+ (20 - 2 = 18), Sc 3+ (21 - 3 = 18), Cl - (17 + 1 = 18).
These are all isoelectronic ions since each one of them has 18 electrons.
(c) P3- (15 + 3 = 18), S2- (16 + 2 = 18), Cl - (17 + 1 = 18), K + (19 - 1 = 18).
These are all isoelectronic ions since each one of them has 18 electrons.
(d) Ti 4+ (22 - 4 = 18), Ar(18), Cr 3+ (24 - 3 = 21), V 5+ (23 - 5 = 18).
These have different number of electrons and hence are not isoelectronic ions.

Q. 20 In which of the following options order of arrangement does not agree

with the variation of property indicated against it?
(a) Al3+ < Mg 2+ < Na+ < F– (Increasing ionic size)
(b) B < C < N < O ( Increasing first ionisation enthalpy)
(c) I < Br < Cl < F ( Increasing electron gain enthalpy)
(d) Li < Na < K < Rb ( Increasing metallic radius)
K Thinking Process
(i) The ionic size increases as the positive charge on the cation decreases or the negative
charge on the anion increases.
(ii) First ionisation enthalpy increases from left to right in the periodic table.
(iii) Electron gain enthalpy increases as the electronegativity of the atom increases.
(iv) The metallic character increases as the size of the metal atom increases.
Ans. (b, c)
Due to greater stability of the half filled electronic configuration of nitrogen, its ionisation
enthalpy is higher than that of oxygen. Thus, option (b) is incorrect.
Due to stronger electron-electron repulsions in the small size of flourine the negative electron
gain enthalpy of fluorine is lower than that of chlorine. Hence, option (c) is incorrect.
Q. 21 Which of the following have no unit?
(a) Electronegativity (b) Electron gain enthalpy
(c) Ionisation enthalpy (d) Metallic character
Ans. (a, d)
Electronegativity and metallic character have no units while electron gain enthalpy and
ionisation enthalpy have units of kJ mol –1.

Q. 22 Ionic radii vary in

(a) inverse proportion to the effective nuclear charge
(b) inverse proportion to the square of effective nuclear charge
(c) direct proportion to the screening effect
(d) direct proportion to the square of screening effect
Ans. (a, c)
Ionic radius decreases as the effective nuclear charge increases.
1
Ionic radius µ
effective nuclear charge
Further, ionic radius increases as the screening effect increases.
Ionic radius µ screening effect

Q. 23 An element belongs to 3rd period and group 13 of the periodic table.

Which of the following properties will be shown by the element?
(a) Good conductor of electricity (b) Liquid, metallic
(c) Solid, metallic (d) Solid, non-metallic
Ans. (a, c)
Except boron, all elements of groups 13 are metallic. These exists as solid. Being metallic in
nature, aluminium is good conductor of electricity.

Short Answer Type Questions

Q. 24 Explain why the electron gain enthalpy of fluorine is less negative
than that of chlorine?
Ans. Electron gain enthalply of F is less negative than that of Cl because when an electron is
added to F, the added electron goes to the smaller n = 2 quantum level and suffers
repulsion from other electrons present in this level.
In case of Cl, the added electron goes to the larger n = 3 quantum level and suffers much
less repulsion from other electrons.

Q. 25 All transition elements are d- block elements, but all d- block elements
are not transition elements. Explain.
Ans. Elements in which the last electron enters in the d-orbitals, are called d-block elements or
transition elements. These elements have the general outer electronic configuration
(n - 1)d 1-10 ns 0 - 2 . Zn, Cd and Hg having the electronic configuration (n - 1) d 10 ns 2 do not
show most of the properties of transition elements.
 The d-orbitals in these elements are completely filled in the ground state as well as in their
common oxidation states. Therefore, they are not regarded as transition elements.
Thus, on the basis of properties, all transition elements are d-block elements but on the
basis of electronic configuration, all d-block elements are not transition elements.

Q. 26 Identify the group and valency of the element having atomic number
119. Also predict the outermost electronic configuration and write the
general formula of its oxide.

Ans. The present set up of the Long form of the periodic table can accommodate maximum 118
elements. Thus, in accordance with aufbau principle, the filling of 8s-orbital will occur. In
other words 119th electron will enter 8s-orbital. As such its outmost electronic
configuration will be 8s1.
Since, it has only one electron in the valence shell, i.e., 8s, therefore, its valency will be 1 and
it will lie in the group IA along with alkali metals and the formula of its oxide will be M 2O
where M represents the element.

Q. 27 Ionisation enthalpies of elements of second period are given below

Ionisation enthalpy/k cal mol –1 : 520, 899, 801, 1086, 1402, 1314,
1681, 2080. Match the correct enthalpy with the elements and
complete the graph given in figure. Also write symbols of elements
with their atomic number.
2500

2000
lonisation enthalpy
DiH/kJ mol –1

1500

1000

500
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Atomic number of elements
Ans. To match the correct enthalpy with the elements and to complete the graph the following
points are taken into consideration. As we move from left to right across a period, the
ionisation enthalpy keeps on increasing due to increased nuclear charge and
simultaneous decrease in atomic radius.
However, there are some exceptions given below
(a) In spite of increased nuclear charge, the first ionisation enthalpy of B is lower than that
of Be. This is due to the presence of fully filled 2s orbital of Be [1s 2 2 s 2 ] which is a stable
electronic arrangement. Thus, higher energy is required to knock out the electron from
fully filled 2s orbitals. While B [1s 2 2 s 2 2 P1 ] contains valence electrons in 2s and 2p
orbitals. It can easily lose its one e - from 2p orbital in order to achieve noble gas
configuration. Thus, first ionisation enthalpy of B is lower than that of Be.
Since, the electrons in 2s-orbital are more tightly held by the nucleus than these present
in 2 p-orbital, therefore, ionisation enthalpy of B is lower than that of Be.
 (b) The first ionisation enthalpy of N is higher than that of O though the nuclear charge of O
is higher than that of N. This is due to the reason that in case of N, the electron is to be
removed from a more stable exactly half-filled electronic configuration
(1s 2 2 s 2 2 p1x 2 p1y 2 p1z ) which is not present in O (1s 2 2 s 2 2 px2 2 p1y 2 p1z ) .

Therefore, the first ionisation enthalpy of N is higher than that of O. The symbols of
elements along with their atomic numbers are given in the following graph
2500

Ne
lonisation enthalpy

2000 (2080)
DiH/kJ mol –1

F
N (1681)
1500 (1402)
Be O
(899) (1314)
1000 C
Li (1086)
(520) B
(801)
500
0 2 4 6 8 10
Atomic number (Z)

Q. 28 Among the elements B, Al, C and Si,

(a) which element has the highest first ionisation enthalpy?
(b) which element has the most metallic character?
Justify your answer in each case.
Ans. The placing of elements are as
Period Group-13 Group-14
2nd Period Boron Carbon
3rd Period Aluminium Silicon
(a) Ionisation enthalpy increases along a period (as we move from left to right in a period)
with decrease in atomic size and decreases down the group with increase in atomic
size. Hence, carbon has the highest first ionisation enthalpy.
(b) Metallic character decreases across a period but increases on moving down the group.
Hence, aluminium has the most metallic character.

Q. 29 Write four characteristic properties of p-block elements.

Ans. The four important characteristic properties of p-block elements are the following
(a) p-Block elements include both metals and non-metals but the number of non-metals is
much higher than that of metals. Further, the metallic character increases from top to
bottom within a group and non-metallic character increases from left to right along a
period in this block.
(b) Their ionisation enthalpies are relatively higher as compared to s-block elements.
(c) They mostly form covalent compounds.
(d) Some of them show more than one (variable) oxidation states in their compounds. Their
oxidising character increases from left to right in a period and reducing character
increases from top to bottom in a group.
Q. 30 Choose the correct order of atomic radii of fluorine and neon (in pm)
out of the options given below and justify your answer.
(a) 72, 160 (b) 160, 160 (c) 72, 72 (d) 160, 72
Ans. (a) Atomic radius of F is expressed in terms of covalent radius while, atomic radius of
neon is usually expressed in terms of van der Waals’ radius. van der Waals’ radius of
an element is always larger than its covalent radius.
Therefore, atomic radius of F is smaller than atomic radius of
Ne (F = 72 pm, Ne = 160 pm).

Q. 31 Illustrate by taking examples of transition elements and

non-transition elements that oxidation states of elements are largely
based on electronic configuration.
Ans. Oxidation state of an element depends upon the electrons present in the outermost shell or
eight minus the number of valence shell electrons (outermost shell electrons). e.g.,
Alkali metals (Group 1 elements) General valence shell electronic configuration —ns1;
Oxidation state = + 1.
Alkaline earth metals (Group 2 elements) General valence shell electronic configuration
—ns 2 ; Oxidation state = + 2 .
Alkali metals and alkaline earth metals belong to s-block elements and elements of group
13 to group 18 are known as p-block elements.
Group 13 elements General valence shell electronic configuration —ns 2 np1; Oxidation
states = + 3 and + 1.
Group 14 elements General valence shell electronic configuration —ns 2 np2 ; Oxidation
states = + 4 and + 2.
Group 15 elements General valence shell electronic configuration —ns 2 np3 ; Oxidation
states = - 3 , + 3 and + 5. Nitrogen shows + 1, + 2 , + 4 oxidation states also.
Group 16 elements General valence shell electronic configuration —ns 2 np4 ; Oxidation
states = - 2 , + 2 , + 4 and + 6.
Group 17 elements General valence shell electronic configuration —ns 2 np5 ; Oxidation
states = - 1. Cl, Br and I also show + 1, + 3 , + 5 and + 7 oxidation states.
Group 18 elements General valence shell configuration —ns 2 np6 . Oxidation state = zero.
Transition elements or d-block elements General electronic configuration
- (n - 1) d 1 - 10 ns1 - 2 . These elements show variable oxidation states due to involvement of
not only ns electrons but d or f-electrons (inner-transition elements) as well. Their most
common oxidation states are + 2 and + 3.

Q. 32 Nitrogen has positive electron gain enthalpy whereas oxygen has

negative. However, oxygen has lower ionisation enthalpy than nitrogen.
Explain.
Ans. Electronic configuration of 7N = 1s 2 , 2 s 2 , 2 p1x , 2 p1y , 2 p1z . Nitrogen has stable configuration
because p-orbital is half-filled. Therefore, addition of extra electron to any of the p-orbital
requires energy.
Electronic configuration of 8O = 1s 2 , 2 s 2 , 2 px2 , 2 p1y , 2 p1z . Oxygen has 2 p4 electrons, so
process of adding an electron to the p-orbital is exothermic.
Oxygen has lower ionisation enthalpy than nitrogen because by removing one electron from
2 p-orbital, oxygen acquires stable configuration, i.e., 2 p3 . On the other hand, in case of
nitrogen it is not easy to remove one of the three 2 p-electrons due to its stable configuration.
Q. 33 First member of each group of representative elements (i.e., s and
p-block elements) shows anomalous behaviour. Illustrate with two
examples.
Ans. First member of each group of representative elements (i.e., s- and p-block elements)
shows anomalous behaviour due to (i) small size (ii) high ionisation enthalpy (iii) high
electronegativity and (iv) absence of d- orbitals. e. g ., in s-block elements, lithium shows
anomalous behaviour from rest of the alkali metals.
(a) Compounds of lithium have significant covalent character. While compounds of other
alkali metals are predominantly ionic.
(b) Lithium reacts with nitrogen to form lithium nitride while other alkali metals do not form
nitrides.
In p-block elements, first member of each group has four orbitals, one 2s- orbital and three
2 p-orbitals in their valence shell. So, these elements show a maximum covalency of four
while other members of the same group or different group show a maximum covalency
beyond four due to availability of vacant d- orbitals.

Q. 34 p-block elements form acidic, basic and amphoteric oxides. Explain

each property by giving two examples and also write the reactions of
these oxides with water.
Ans. In p-block, when we move from left to right in a period, the acidic character of the oxides
increases due to increase in electronegativity. e.g.,
(i) 2nd period B 2O 3 < CO 2 < N2O 3 acidic nature increases.
(ii) 3rd period Al 2O 3 < SiO 2 < P4O10 < SO 3 < Cl 2O 7 acidic character increases.
On moving down the group, acidic character decreases and basic character increases. e.g.,
(a) Nature of oxides of 13 group elements
B 2O 3 Al O 3 Ga 2O 3 In2O 3 Tl 2O
1244 2443
Weakly acidic Amphoteric Basic Strongly
basic
(b) Nature of oxides of 15 group elements
N2O 5 P4O10 As 4O10 Sb 4O10 Bi 2O 3
Strongly Moderately Amphoteric Amphoteric Basic
acidic acidic
Among the oxides of same element, higher the oxidation state of the element,
stronger is the acid. e.g., SO 3 is a stronger acid than SO2 .
B 2O 3 is weakly acidic and on dissolution in water, it forms orthoboric acid.
Orthoboric acid does not act as a protonic acid (it does not ionise) but acts as a
weak Lewis acid.
B 2O 3 + 3H2O 1 2H3BO 3
Boron trioxide Orthoboric acid
B(OH)3 + H ¾ OH ¾® [B (OH)4 ]- + H+
Al 2O 3 is amphoteric in nature. It is insoluble in water but dissolves in alkalies and
reacts with acids.
D
Al 2O 3 + 2NaOH ¾® 2NaAlO 2 + H2O
Aluminium Sodium meta
trioxide aluminate
D
¬¾ Al 2O 3 + 6HCl ¾® 2AlCl 3 + 3H2O
Aluminium
chloride
 Tl 2O is as basic as NaOH due to its lower oxidation state (+ 1.)
Tl 2O + 2HCl ¾® 2TlCl + H2O
P4O10 on reaction with water gives orthophosphoric acid
P4O10 + 6H2O ¾® 4H3PO 4
Phosphorus Orthophosphoric
pentoxide acid
Cl 2O 7 is strongly acidic in nature and on dissolution in water, it gives perchloric acid.
Cl 2O 7 + H2O ¾® 2HClO 4
Dichlorine heptoxide Perchloric acid

Q. 35 How would you explain the fact that the first ionisation enthalpy of
sodium is lower than that of magnesium but its second ionisation
enthalpy is higher than that of magnesium?
K Thinking Process
The species having exactly half-filled or fully filled orbitals have extra ordinarily high ionisation
enthalpies.
Ans. First ionisation enthalpy of sodium (Na = 1s 2 , 2 s 2 , 2 p6 , 3s1 ) is lower than that of
magnesium (Mg = 1s 2 , 2 s 2 2 p6 , 3 s 2 ) because the electron to be removed in both the
cases is from 3s-orbital but the nuclear charge is lower in Na than that of magnesium.
After the removal of first electron Na + acquires inert gas (Ne) configuration
(Na + = 1s 2 , 2 s 2 , 2 p6 ) and hence, removal of second electron from sodium is difficult.
While in case of magnesium, after the removal of first electron, the electronic configuration
of Mg + is 1s 2 , 2 s 2 , 2 p6 , 3s1. In this case 3s1 electron is easy to remove in comparison to
remove an electron from inert gas configuration. Therefore, IE2 of Na is higher than that of
magnesium.

Q. 36 What do you understand by exothermic reaction and endothermic

reaction? Give one example of each type.
Ans. Exothermic reactions Reactions which are accompanied by evolution of heat are called
exothermic reactions. The quantity of heat produced is shown either along with the
products with a ‘+ ’ sign or in terms if D H with a ‘-’ sign. e.g.,
C(s ) + O 2 (g ) ¾® CO 2 (g ) + 393.5 kJ
1
H2 (g ) + O 2 (g ) ¾® H2O (l) ; DH = –285.8 kJ mol –1
2
Endothermic reactions Reactions which proceed with absorption of heat are called
endothermic reactions. The quantity of heat absorbed is shown either along with the
products with a ‘-’ sign or in terms of DH with a ‘+’ sign e.g.,
C(s ) + H2O(g ) ¾® CO (g ) + H2 (g ) - 131.4 kJ
N2 (g ) + 3H2 (g ) ¾® 2NH3 (g ) ; DH =+ 92.4 kJ mol –1

Q. 37 Arrange the elements N, P, O and S in the order of

(i) increasing first ionisation enthalpy.
(ii) increasing non-metallic character.
Give reason for the arrangement assigned.
Ans. The placing of elements are as
Period Group 15 Group 16
2nd period N O
3rd period P S
 (i) Ionisation enthalpy of nitrogen ( 7N = 1s 2 , 2 s 2 , 2 p3 ) is greater than oxygen ( 8 O = 1s 2 ,
2 s 2 , 2 p4 ) due to extra stable exactly half-filled 2 p-orbitals. Similarly, ionisation enthalpy
of phosphorus (15 P = 1s 2 , 2 s 2 , 2 p6 , 3s 2 , 3 p3 ) is greater than sulphur
(16 S = 1s , 2 s , 2 p , 3s 2 , 3 p4 ).
2 2 6

On moving down the group, ionisation enthalpy decreases with increasing atomic size.
So, the order is
S < P < O < N ® First ionisation enthalpy increases.
(ii) Non-metallic character across a period (left to right) increases but on moving down the
group it decreases. So, the order is
P < S < N < O ® Non-metallic character increases.

Q. 38 Explain the deviation in ionisation enthalpy of some elements from

the general trend by using given figure.
2500
Ionisation enthalpy

2000 (2080)Ne
DiH/kJ mol –1

(1681) F
1500 (1402) N
O (1314)
1000 (899)Be C (1086)
B (801)
(520) Li
500
0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Atomic number of elements

Ans. There is deviation of ionisation enthalpy of some elements from the general trend as shown
in figure. The first ionisation enthalpy of B is lower than that of Be and in case of nitrogen,
the first ionisation enthalpy is higher than that of O. (Also, refer to Q. 27)

Q. 39 Explain the following

(a) Electronegativity of elements increase on moving from left to right
in the periodic table.
(b) Ionisation enthalpy decrease in a group from top to bottom.
Ans. (a) Across the period, the nuclear charge increases and the atomic radius decreases. As a
result, the tendency of the atom of an element to attract the shared pair of electrons
towards itself increases and hence the electronegativity of the element increases.
e.g., electronegativity of the elements of the 2nd period increases regularly from left to
right as follows Li (1.0), Be (1.5), B (2.0) , C (2.5), N (3.0), O (3.5) and .
(b) The ionisation enthalpy decreases regularly as we move from top to bottom, as explained
below
(i) On moving down a group from top to bottom, the atomic size increases gradually
due to the addition of a new principal energy shell at each succeding element. As
a result, the distance between the nucleus and the valence shell increases.
In other words, the force of attraction of the nucleus for the valence electrons
decreases and hence the ionisation enthalpy should decrease.
 (ii) With the addition of new shells, the number of inner shell which shield the valence
electrons from the nucleus increases. In other words, the shielding effect or the
screening effect increases.
As a result, the force of attraction of the nucleus for the valence electrons further
decreases and hence the ionisation enthalpy should decrease.
(iii) Further, in a group from top to bottom nuclear charge increases with increase in
atomic number. As a result, the force of attraction of the nucleus for the valence
electrons increases and hence the ionisation enthalpy should increase.
The combined effect of the increase in atomic size and screening effect more than
compensate the effect of the increased nuclear charge. Consequently, the valence
electrons become less and less firmly held by the nucleus and hence the ionisation enthalpy
gradually decreases as we move down the group.

Q. 40 How does the metallic and non-metallic character vary on moving

from left to right in a period?
Ans. As we move from left to right in a period, the number of valence electrons increases by one
at each succeeding element but the number of shells remains same. Due to this effective
nuclear charge increases. More is the effective nuclear charge, more is the attraction
between nuclei and electron.
Hence, the tendency of the element to lose electrons decreases, this results in decrease in
metallic character. Furthermore, the tendency of an element to gain electrons increases with
increase in effective nuclear charge, so non-metallic character increases on moving from left
to right in a period.

Q. 41 The radius of Na + cation is less than that of Na atom. Give reason.

Ans. When an atom loses an electron to form cation, its radius decreases. In a cation, per
electron nuclear forces increases due to decrease in number of electrons. As a result of
this, effective nuclear charge increases and the radius of cation decreases. e.g., ionic
radius of Na + is smaller than the radius of its parent atom Na.
Na ¾® Na + + 1e -
Electrons 11 10
Nuclear charge 11 11
Ionic size 186pm 95pm

Q. 42 Among alkali metals which element do you expect to be least

electronegative and why?
Ans. On moving down the group, electronegativity decreases because atomic size increases. Fr
has the largest size, therefore it is least electronegative.
Matching The Columns
Q. 43 Match the correct atomic radius with the element.
Element Atomic radius (pm)
Be 74
C 88
O 111
B 77
N 66
K Thinking Process
(i) All the element given in the question belong to the second period of the periodic table.
(ii) Atomic radius is the distance from the centre of the nucleus to the point upto
which the density of the electron cloud (i.e., probability of finding the electron) is
maximum.
Ans. All the given elements are of same period and along a period, atomic radii decreases
because effective nuclear charge increases. Thus, the order of atomic radii is
O < N < C < B < Be or, Be = 11pm, O = 66 pm, C = 77 pm, B = 88 pm, N = 74 pm.

Q. 44 Match the correct ionisation enthalpies and electron gain enthalpies

of the following elements.
Elements DH1 DH 2 Deg H
(i) Most reactive non-metal A. 419 3051 - 48
(ii) Most reactive metal B. 1681 3374 - 328
(iii) Least reactive element C. 738 1451 - 40
(iv) Metal forming binary halide D. 2372 5251 + 48

Ans. (i) Most reactive non-metal has high D i H1 and D i H2 and most negative Deg H. Therefore,
the element is B.
(ii) Most reactive metal has low D i H1 and high D i H2 (because the second electron has to
be lost from noble gas configuration) and has small negative Deg H. Therefore, the
element is A.
(iii) Noble gases are the least reactive elements. They have very high D i H1 and D i H2 and
have positive Deg H values. Thus, the element is D.
(iv) Metal forming binary halides are alkaline earth metals. They have D i H1 and D i H2 values
little higher than those of most reactive metals (such as A) and have comparatively
slightly less negative Deg H values. Thus, the element is C.
Q. 45 Electronic configuration of some elements is given in Column I and
their electron gain enthalpies are given in Column II. Match the
electronic configuration with electron gain enthalpy.
Column I Column II
(Electronic configuration) (Electron gain enthalpy/ kJmol –1 )
A. 1s2 2s2 2p 6 - 53
B. 2 2
1s 2s 2p 3s6 1
- 328
C. 2 2
1s 2s 2p 5
- 141
D. 2 2
1s 2s 2p 4
+ 48

Ans. A. ® (4) B. ® (1) C. ® (2) D. ® (3)

A. This electronic configuration corresponds to the noble gas i.e., neon. Since, noble
gases have + Deg H values, therefore, electronic configuration (A) corresponds to the
Deg H = +48 kJ mol –1.

B. This electronic configuration corresponds to the alkali metal i.e., potassium. Alkali
metals have small negative Deg H values, hence, electronic configuration (B)
corresponds to Deg H = –53 kJ mol –1.

C. This electronic configuration corresponds to the halogen i.e., fluorine. Since, halogens
have high negative Deg H values, therefore, electronic configuration (C) corresponds to
Deg H = 328 kJ mol –1.

D. This electronic configuration corresponds to the chalcogen i.e., oxygen. Since,

chalcogens have Deg H values less negative than those of halogens, therefore,
electronic configuration (D) corresponds to Deg H = - 141kJmol -1.

Assertion and Reason

In the following questions a statement of Assertion (A) followed by a statement
of Reason (R) is given. Choose the correct option out of the choices given below
in each question.

Q. 46 Assertion (A) Generally, ionisation enthalpy increases from left to

right in a period.
Reason (R) When successive electrons are added to the orbitals in the
same principal quantum level, the shielding effect of inner core of
electrons does not increase very much to compensate for the increased
attraction of the electron to the nucleus.
(a) Assertion is correct statement and reason is wrong statement.
(b) Assertion and reason both are correct statements and reason is correct
explanation of Assertion.
(c) Assertion and reason both are wrong statements.
(d) Assertion is wrong statement and reason is correct statement.
Ans. (b) Assertion and reason both are correct statements and reason is correct explanation of
assertion. lonisation enthalpy increases along a period because effective nuclear
charge increases and atomic size decreases.
Q. 47 Assertion (A) Boron has a smaller first ionisation enthalpy than
beryllium.
Reason (R) The penetration of 2s electron to the nucleus is more than
the 2p electron hence 2p electron is more shielded by the inner core of
electrons than the 2s electrons.
(a) Assertion and reason both are correct statements but reason is not correct
explanation for assertion.
(b) Assertion is correct statement but reason is wrong statement.
(c) Assertion and reason both are correct statements and reason is correct
explanation for Assertion.
(d) Assertion and reason both are wrong statements.
Ans. (c) Assertion and reason both are correct statements and reason is correct explanation
for assertion.
Boron has a smaller first ionisation enthalpy than beryllium because the penetration of
a 2s electron to the nucleus is more than the 2p electron. Hence, 2p electron is more
shielded by the inner core of electron than the 2s electron.

Q. 48 Assertion (A) Electron gain enthalpy becomes less negative as we go

down a group.
Reason (R) Size of the atom increases on going down the group and
the added electron would be farther from the nucleus.
(a) Assertion and reason both are correct statements but reason is not correct
explanation for assertion.
(b) Assertion and reason both are correct statements and reason is correct
explanation for assertion.
(c) Assertion and reason both are wrong statements.
(d) Assertion is wrong statement but reason is correct statement.
Ans. (b) Assertion and reason both are correct statements and reason is correct explanation
for assertion.
Electron gain enthalpy becomes less negative as the size of an atom increases down
the group. This is because within a group screening effect increases on going
downward and the added electron would be farther away from the nucleus.

Long Answer Type Questions

Q. 49 Discuss the factors affecting electron gain enthalpy and the trend in
its variation in the periodic table.
Ans. Electron gain enthalpy of an element is equal to the energy released when an electron is
added to valence shell of an isolated gaseous atom.
A(g ) + e - ¾® A - (g ); Deg H = negative
Factors affecting electron gain enthalpy
(i) Effective nuclear charge Electron gain enthalpy increases with increase in effective
nuclear charge because attraction of nucleus towards incoming electron increases.
 (ii) Size of an atom Electron gain enthalpy decreases with increase in the size of valence
shell.
(iii) Type of subshell More closer is the subshell to the nucleus, easier is the addition of
electron in that subshell.
Electron gain enthalpy (in decreasing order) for addition of electron in different subshell
(n-same) is s > p > d > f
(iv) Nature of configuration Half-filled and completely-filled subshell have stable
configuration, so addition of electron in them is not energetically favourable.
Variation in the periodic table As a general rule, electron gain enthalpy becomes
more and more negative with increase in the atomic number across a period. The
effective nuclear charge increases from left to right across a period and consequently it
will be easier to add an electron to a smaller atom.
Electron gain enthalpy becomes less negative as we go down a group because the size
of the atom increases and the added electron would be farther from the nucleus.
Electron gain enthalpy of O or F is less than that of the succeeding element (S or Cl)
because the added electron goes to the smaller n = 2 level and suffers repulsion from
other electrons present in this level. For the n = 3 level (S or Cl), the added electron
occupies a larger region of space and suffers much less repulsion from electrons
present in this level.

Q. 50 Define ionisation enthalpy. Discuss the factors affecting ionisation

enthalpy of the elements and its trends in the periodic table.
Ans. Ionisation enthalpy The minimum amount of energy required to remove the most
loosely bound electron from an isolated gaseous atom so as to convert it into a gaseous
cation is called its ionisation enthalpy. It is represented by D i H.
Factors affecting ionisation enthalpy of the elements
Ionisation enthalpy depends upon the following factors
(i) Nuclear charge The ionisation enthalpy increases with increase in nuclear charge. This
is due to the fact that with increase in nuclear charge, the electrons of the outer shell are
more firmly held by the nucleus and thus greater energy is required to pull out an
electron from the atom.
e.g., the ionisation enthalpy increases as we move along a period from left to right due
to increased nuclear charge.
Element of 2nd period Li Be B C N O F Ne
Nuclear charge +3 +4 +5 +6 +7 +8 +9 +10
First ionisation enthalpy 520 899 801 1086 1402 1314 1681 2080
(kJ mol -1 )
(ii) Atomic size or radius Ionisation enthalpy decreases as the atomic size increases. As
the distance of the outer electrons from the nucleus increases with increase in atomic
radius, the attractive force on the outer electron decreases.
As a result, outer electrons are held less firmly and hence lesser amount of energy is
required to knock them out. Thus, ionisation enthalpy decreases with increase in atomic
size. Ionisation enthalpy is found to decrease on moving down a group
Element (alkali metals) Li Na K Rb Cs
First ionisation enthalpies 520 496 419 403 374
(kJ mol -1 )
 (iii) Penetration effect of the electrons Ionisation enthalpy increases as the penetration
effect of the electrons increases. It is well known fact that in case of multielectron atoms,
the electrons of the s-orbital has the maximum probability of being found near the
nucleus and this probability goes on decreasing in case of p, d and f-orbitals of the
same shell.
In other words, s-electrons of any shell are more penetrating towards the nucleus than
p-electrons the same shell. Thus, within the same shell, the penetration effect
decreases in the order s>p>d>f
e.g., First ionisation enthalpy of aluminium is lower than that of magnesium. This is due
to the fact that in case of aluminium (1s 2 2 s 2 2 p6 3s 2 3 p1x ), we have to pull out a p-electron
to form Al + ion whereas in case of magnesium (1s 2 2 s 2 2 p6 3s 2 ) we have to remove an
s-electron of the same energy shell to produce Mg + ion.
(iv) Shielding or screening effect of inner shell electrons As the shielding or the screening
effect of the inner electrons increases, the ionisation enthalpy decreases. Consequently,
the force of attraction by the nucleus for the valence shell electrons decreases and
hence the ionisation enthalpy decreases.
(v) Effect of arrangement of electrons If an atom contains exactly half filled or completely
filled orbitals then such an arrangement has extra stability. Therefore, the removal of an
electron from such an atom requires more energy than expected.
e.g., Be (1s 2 2 s 2 ) has higher ionisation enthalpy than B (1s 2 2 s 2 2 p1 ) and
N(1s 2 2 s 2 2 px6 2 p1y 2 p1z ) has higher ionisation enthalpy than O (1s 2 2 s 2 2 px2 2 p1y 2 p1z ). In
general, as we move from left to right in a period, the ionisation enthalpy increases with
increasing atomic numbers.
The ionisation enthalpies keep on decreasing regularly as we move down a group from
one element to the other.

2500 He Ne

2000

Ar
1500
DiH/kJ mol –1

Kr
Xe
1000

500
Li Na K
Rb Cs
0 10 20 30 40 50 60
Atomic number (Z)
( Di H )

Q. 51 Justify the given statement with suitable examples–“the properties of

the elements are a periodic function of their atomic numbers”.
Ans. There are numerous physical properties of elements such as melting points, boiling points,
heats of fusion and vaporisation, energy of atomisation, etc., which show periodic
variations.
 The cause of periodicity in properties is the repetition of similar outer electronic
configurations after certain regular intervals. e.g., all the elements of 1st group (alkali metals)
have similar outer electronic configuration, i.e., ns1.
2 1
3 Li = 1s , 2 s

11Na = 1s 2 , 2 s 2 , 2 p6 , 3s1
19 K = 1s 2 , 2 s 2 , 2 p6 , 3s 2 , 3 p6 , 4s1
37Rb = 1s 2 , 2 s 2 , 2 p6 , 3s 2 , 3 p6 , 3d 10 , 4s 2 , 4 p6 , 5s1
55 Cs = 1s 2 , 2 s 2 , 2 p6 , 3s 2 , 3 p6 , 3d 10 , 4s 2 , 4 p6 , 4d 10 , 5s 2 , 5 p6 , 6s1
87Fr = 1s 2 , 2 s 2 , 2 p6 , 3s 2 , 3 p6 , 3d 10 , 4s 2 , 4 p6 , 4d 10 , 4f14
5s 2 , 5 p6 , 5d 10 , 6s 2 , 6 p6 , 7 s1
Therefore, due to similar outermost shell electronic configuration all alkali metals have
similar properties. e.g., sodium and potassium both are soft and reactive metals. They all
form basic oxides and their basic character increases down the group. They all form
unipositive ion by the lose of one electron.
Similarly, all the elements of 17th group (halogens) have similar outermost shell electronic
configuration, i.e., ns 2 np5 and thus possess similar properties.
9F = 1s 2 , 2 s 2 , 2 p5
17Cl = 1s 2 , 2 s 2 , 2 p6 , 3s 2 , 3 p5
35 Br = 1s 2 , 2 s 2 , 2 p6 , 3s 2 , 3 p6 , 3d 10 , 4s 2 , 4 p5
53 I = 1s 2 , 2 s 2 , 2 p6 , 3s 2 , 3 p6 , 3d 10 , 4s 2 , 4 p6 , 4d 10 , 5s 2 , 5 p5
85 At = 1s 2 , 2 s 2 , 2 p6 , 3s 2 , 3 p6 , 3d 10 , 4s 2 , 4 p6 , 4d 10 ,
4f14 , 5s 2 , 5 p6 , 5d 10 , 6s 2 , 6 p5

Q. 52 Write down the outermost electronic configurations of alkali metals.

How will you justify their placement in group 1 of the periodic table?
Ans. All the elements of group IA (or I), i.e., alkali metals have the similar outer electronic
configuration, i.e., ns1 where n refers to the number of principal shell. These electronic
configurations are given below

Symbol Atomic number Electronic configuration

Li 3 1s 2 2s 1 or [He] 2s 1
Na 11 1s 2 2s 2 2p 6 3s 1 or [Ne]3s 1
K 19 1s 2 2s 2 2p 6 3s 2 3p 6 4 s 1 or [Ar] 4 s 1
Rb 37 1s2 2s2 2p 6 3s2 3p 6 3d10 4 s2 4 p 6 5s 1 or [Kr] 5s1
Cs 55 1s2 2s2 2p 6 3s2 3p 6 3d10 4 s2 4 p 6 4 d10 5s 2 5p 6 6 s 1 or [Xe]6 s 1
Fr 87 1s 2 2s 2 2p 6 3s2 3p 6 3d 10 4 s 2 4 p 6 4 d 10 4 f 14
5s 2 5p 6 5d 10 6 s 2 6 p 6 7 s 1 or [Rn] 7 s 1.

Hence, placement of all these elements in group 1 of the periodic table because of similarity
in electronic configuration and all the elements have similar properties.
Q. 53 Write the drawbacks in Mendeleef’s periodic table that led to its
modification.
Ans. The main drawbacks of Mendeleef’s periodic table are
(i) Some elements having similar properties were placed in different groups whereas some
elements having dissimilar properties were placed in the same group.
e.g., alkali metals such as Li, Na, K, etc., (IA group) are grouped together with coinage
metals such as Cu, Ag, Au (IB group) though their properties are quite different.
Chemically similar elements such as Cu(IB group) and Hg (IIB group) have been placed
in different groups.
(ii) Some elements with higher atomic weights are placed before the elements with lower
atomic weights in order to maintain the similar chemical nature of elements.
39.9 39.1 58.9 58.7
i.e., 18 Ar and 19 K; 27 Co and 28 Ni, etc.
(iii) Isotopes did not find any place in the periodic table. However, according to Mendeleef’s
classification, these should be placed at different places in the periodic table.
(All the above three defects were however removed when modern periodic law based
on atomic number was given).
(iv) Position of hydrogen in the periodic table is not fixed but is controversial.
(v) Position of elements of group VIII could not be made clear which have been arranged in
three triads without any justification.
(vi) It could not explain the even and odd series in IV, V and VI long periods.
(vii) Lanthanides and actinides which were discovered later on have not been given proper
positions in the main frame of periodic table.

Q. 54 In what manner is the long from of periodic table better than

Mendeleef’s periodic table? Explain with examples.
Ans. The long form of the periodic table is better than Mendeleef's periodic table because it
classifies the elements on the basis of electronic configurations of their atoms.
The characteristics of this table are
(i) The table consists of 9 vertical columns, called the groups and 7 horizontal rows, called
the periods.
(ii) The groups are marked 0 to VIII out of which group I to VII are subdivided into
subgroups A and B.
(iii) The group IA elements (Li,Na,K,Rb,Cs and Fr) are known as alkali metals and the group
IIA elements (Be,Mg,Ca,Sr,Ba and Ra) are known as alkaline earth metals. Elements in
group VIII A (F,Cl,Br, I and At) are called halogens and elements in group VIII
(He, Ne, Ar, Kr, Xe and Rn) are called noble gases or rare gases.
(iv) The group VIII has there similar elements placed together in one place. These are called
transition triads, e.g., Fe, Co and Ni, Ru, Rh and Pd;Os, Ir and Pt etc.
(v) In the 6th and 7th period, 14 elements present called as lanthanides and actinides
respectively.
(vi) Based on their electronic configuration, elements have been grouped into s - ,p -, d-
and f-blocks. This has helped us to understand their properties more easily.
(vii) There is gradual change in properties seen from one end to the other.
Q. 55 Discuss and compare the trend in ionisation enthalpy of the elements
of group 1 with those of group 17 elements.
Ans. The ionisation enthalpies decreases regularly as we move down a group from one element
to the other. This is evident from the values of the first ionisation enthalpies of the elements
of group 1 (alkali metals) and group 17 elements as given in table and figure.

Group 1 First ionisation enthalpies Group 17 First ionisation enthalpies

(kJ mol -1 ) (kJ mol -1 )
H 1312 F 1681
Li 520 Cl 1255
Na 496 Br 1142
K 419 I 1009
Rb 403 At 917
Cs 374

550
Li (520)
500 Na (496)
Ionisotion enthalpy
DiH/kJ mol –1

450

Rb (403)
400 Na (419)
Cs (374)

350
0 10 20 30 40 50 60
Atomic number (Z)
Given trend can be easily explained on the basis of increasing atomic size and screening
effect as follows
(i) On moving down the group, the atomic size increases gradually due to the addition of
one new principal energy shell at each succeeding element. Hence, the distance of the
valence electrons from the nucleus increases.
Consequently, the force of attraction by the nucleus for the valence electrons decreases
and hence the ionisation enthalpy should decrease.
(ii) With the addition of new shells, the shielding or the screening effect increases. As a
result, the force of attraction of the nucleus for the valence electrons further decreases
and hence the ionisation enthalpy should decrease.
(iii) Nuclear charge increases with increase in atomic number. As a result, the force of
attraction by the nucleus for the valence electrons should increase and accordingly the
ionisation enthalpy should increase.
The combined effect of the increase in the atomic size and the screening effect more than
compensates the effect of the increased nuclear charges. Consequently, the valence
electrons become less and less firmly held by the nucleus and hence the ionisation
enthalpies gradually decrease as move down the group.