Problem 7 - Chemistry and Chemical Reactivity

Question

The volcanic eruption of Mount St. Helens in the state of Washington in 1980 produced a considerable quantity of a radioactive element in the gaseous state. The element has atomic number \(86 .\) What are the symbol and name of this element?

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

The element is Radon (Rn).

Step 1: Identify the Atomic Number

The problem gives us the atomic number of the element, which is 86. Atomic numbers are unique numbers associated with each element in the periodic table.

Step 2: Locate the Element on the Periodic Table

Locate the element with atomic number 86 on the periodic table. The atomic number indicates the number of protons in an element, and the periodic table is arranged in increasing order of atomic number.

Step 3: Determine the Element Name and Symbol

For atomic number 86, the periodic table lists Radon (Rn) as the corresponding element with this atomic number. Radon is a noble gas and is radioactive.

Key Concepts

Atomic Number

The atomic number is a fundamental concept in chemistry, serving as a unique identifier for each element on the Periodic Table. It represents the number of protons found in the nucleus of an atom, which defines the element's identity. For instance, an atomic number of 86 is associated exclusively with the element radon.

• Each element has its own atomic number.
• Atomic number increases as you move from left to right across a period on the Periodic Table.
• The atomic number determines the chemical properties of the element.

Understanding atomic numbers helps in predicting how an element will interact chemically with others. This concept not only informs us about the structure of the atom but also helps locate elements on the Periodic Table.

Chemical Elements

Chemical elements are pure substances consisting of only one type of atom, distinguished by their atomic number. Elements are the building blocks of all matter, and each has unique physical and chemical properties.

• There are around 118 known chemical elements.
• They are organized in the Periodic Table in order of increasing atomic number.
• Elements can combine to form compounds, which have different properties from the individual elements.

Chemical elements range from hydrogen, the lightest with atomic number 1, to oganesson, with atomic number 118. Elements like radon, which has atomic number 86, belong to specific categories on the Periodic Table, such as noble gases. These categorizations help us comprehend the characteristics and potential uses of each element.

Radioactive Elements

Radioactive elements are those that emit radiation as their atomic nuclei decay over time. This process can result in the transformation of one element into another. Radon, for example, is a radioactive element with an atomic number of 86. It is a noble gas that is naturally found in the environment, often released from rocks and soil.

• Radioactive elements can be natural or synthetic.
• They emit radiation such as alpha, beta, or gamma rays during decay.
• Applications include medicine, energy production, and scientific research.

Understanding radioactive elements is crucial due to their potential hazards and benefits. They require careful handling and precise safety measures to mitigate health risks associated with exposure.