Question

Using the preferred methods explained in the lectures, which elements should you start mapping first?

a. The most abundant elements
b. The least abundant elements
c. Elements with high atomic numbers
d. Elements with low atomic numbers

Answer 1

Start mapping with the most abundant elements, which are usually those with lower atomic weights. Trends in electron affinities and atomic radii in the periodic table aid in this process.

Step-by-step explanation:

When mapping elements using the preferred methods explained in lectures, you should start with the most abundant elements. These elements are generally of lower atomic weight and are more abundant than those of higher atomic weight. When considering electronic structure and trends within the periodic table, you would use electron affinities and atomic radius trends to help map and understand the elements. For example, electron affinities tend to become more negative as we move from left to right across a period, while atomic radii decrease. When considering the elements Al, Be, and Ba, Ba would be the most metallic. In the case of NaCl, CaCl2, and BeCl2, BeCl2 would be the most covalent. Among Rb, K, and Li, Rb would have the lowest first ionization energy, and among Al, Al+, and Al3+, Al3+ would be the smallest. Finally, of Cs+, Ba2+, and Xe, Cs+ would have the largest atomic radius.