Question

Why do Elements in the same Group share chemical and/or physical characteristics?

a) Because they have the same number of neutrons.
b) Because they have the same number of protons.
c) Because they have similar atomic masses.
d) Because they have the same electron configuration in their outermost shell.

Answer 1

Elements in the same group share chemical and/or physical characteristics because they have the same electron configuration in their outermost shell.

Step-by-step explanation:

The elements in the same group share chemical and/or physical characteristics because they have the same electron configuration in their outermost shell. Elements in any one group have the same number of valence electrons, which determines their chemical properties. It is the loss, gain, or sharing of valence electrons that defines how elements react.