Question

Potassium is located in the first group of the periodic table. Use this information to answer each question.

• Is potassium a metal or a nonmetal?

• How many valence electrons are found in a potassium atom?

• Identify two properties of potassium.

Answer 1

Answer: K is a metal, it has 1 valence electron, and it appears white with a gray luster, conducts heat and electricity, and has a low melting point.

Explanation: K is in Group 1 of the periodic table. All elements in group 1 have 1 valence electron, in the s orbital for that energy level. (4s^1 for K). Since it is a metal, it has the expected properties of conducting heat and electricity, and low melting point.