Question

What could be the identity of the element with unique characteristics (brittle solid at room temperature, not very reactive, atomic mass between 30 and 33, valence electrons in the third energy level)?

Answer 1

The element described is most likely Germanium (Ge), which has the properties of being a brittle, semi-metallic solid and is not very reactive. Its atomic number is 32, which fits within the specified atomic mass range and has valence electrons in the third energy level.

Step-by-step explanation:

The element with the described characteristics of being a brittle solid at room temperature, not very reactive, having an atomic mass between 30 and 33, and valence electrons in the third energy level is likely to be Germanium (Ge).

Germanium has an atomic number of 32, placing it right within the specified atomic mass range. It is located in Group 14 and Period 4 of the periodic table, which means its valence electrons are indeed in the third energy level (3p and 3d sublevels). Its physical and chemical properties align well with the description given: it is brittle and semi-metallic (a metalloid), and while it can react with other substances, it is not as reactive as a typical metal or nonmetal.

This elemental identity can be confirmed by consulting the periodic table and using the information provided, such as atomic mass and reactivity, to narrow down the possibilities to Germanium (Ge).