Chemistry 10th Edition

Published by Brooks/Cole Publishing Co.
ISBN 10: 1133610668
ISBN 13: 978-1-13361-066-3

Chapter 27 - Metals II: Properties and Reactions - Exercises - Properties and Chemistry of the Metals - Page 1054: 38

Answer

The Group A or representative elements have their last electrons filling the outer ns and np orbitals, whereas most Group B elements have their last electrons filling the (n-1)d orbitals. Look to the tables to compare their properties. For example, Group 3A elements are representative elements and have the ns$^2 np^1$ outer electron configuration, with 3 valance electrons. Boron is a metalloid and crystallizes as a covalent solid (oxidation states ranging from +3 to –3), while the rest are metals forming ions with +1 or +3 oxidation states. Aluminum ions only have a +3 oxidation state. Group 3B elements are transition metals, with the ns2(n-1)d1 outer electron configuration and tend to have a +3 oxidation state.

Work Step by Step

The Group A or representative elements have their last electrons filling the outer ns and np orbitals, whereas most Group B elements have their last electrons filling the (n-1)d orbitals. Look to the tables to compare their properties. For example, Group 3A elements are representative elements and have the ns$^2 np^1$ outer electron configuration, with 3 valance electrons. Boron is a metalloid and crystallizes as a covalent solid (oxidation states ranging from +3 to –3), while the rest are metals forming ions with +1 or +3 oxidation states. Aluminum ions only have a +3 oxidation state. Group 3B elements are transition metals, with the ns2(n-1)d1 outer electron configuration and tend to have a +3 oxidation state.
Update this answer!

You can help us out by revising, improving and updating this answer.

Update this answer

After you claim an answer you’ll have 24 hours to send in a draft. An editor will review the submission and either publish your submission or provide feedback.