Problem 43 - Chemistry: The Central Science

Question

For each of the following elements, write its chemical symbol, determine the name of the group to which it belongs (Table 2.3), and indicate whether it is a metal, metalloid, or nonmetal: (a) potassium, (b) iodine, (c) magnesium, (d) argon, (e) sulfur.

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

(a) Potassium: chemical symbol K, belongs to Group 1 (alkali metals), and is a metal. (b) Iodine: chemical symbol I, belongs to Group 17 (halogens), and is a nonmetal. (c) Magnesium: chemical symbol Mg, belongs to Group 2 (alkaline earth metals), and is a metal. (d) Argon: chemical symbol Ar, belongs to Group 18 (noble gases), and is a nonmetal. (e) Sulfur: chemical symbol S, belongs to Group 16 (chalcogens), and is a nonmetal.

Step 1: Potassium

Potassium's chemical symbol is K. It belongs to Group 1, which are the alkali metals. Potassium is a metal.

Step 2: Iodine

Iodine's chemical symbol is I. It belongs to Group 17, which are the halogens. Iodine is a nonmetal.

Step 3: Magnesium

Magnesium's chemical symbol is Mg. It belongs to Group 2, which are the alkaline earth metals. Magnesium is a metal.

Step 4: Argon

Argon's chemical symbol is Ar. It belongs to Group 18, which are the noble gases. Argon is a nonmetal.

Step 5: Sulfur

Sulfur's chemical symbol is S. It belongs to Group 16, which are the chalcogens. Sulfur is a nonmetal.