9.3.1—The characteristic properties of an element
- Syllabus
- 9701–2028–2029
- Objective
- 9.3.1
- Level
- AS
Element properties depend on electron structure and the particles present
The characteristic properties of an element arise from its electron configuration, bonding model and the structures it forms. Position in the periodic table is a starting clue, not a complete explanation.
Use effective nuclear charge and shell structure for atomic trends; use lattice, molecular or metallic models for bulk properties.
A Group 2 metal conducts because of delocalised electrons, while a molecular Group 17 element has weak intermolecular forces and a low boiling point.
Do not mix atomic trends with compound trends. A metal’s atomic radius and its oxide’s acidity are related through different levels of explanation.
ConceptA-Level CAIE Chemistry AS