Textbook Question
Write balanced equations for the formation of the following compounds from their elements.(c) Uranium hexafluoride (a solid at 25 °C)
Ch.22 - The Main Group Elements
Chapter 22, Problem 105
Identify the group 5A element that best fits each of the following descriptions: (a) Forms oxides with the group 5A element in the +1, +2 and +4 oxidation states, (b) Is a metal, (c) Is the most abundant group 5A element in the Earth’s crust.
Verified step by step guidance1
Identify the elements in group 5A of the periodic table. These elements are nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), arsenic (As), antimony (Sb), and bismuth (Bi).
For part (a), consider the oxidation states of each group 5A element. Determine which element forms oxides in the +1, +2, and +4 oxidation states. Typically, nitrogen and phosphorus form a variety of oxides, but focus on the element that matches all three oxidation states.
For part (b), identify which of the group 5A elements is classified as a metal. Recall that in the periodic table, elements transition from nonmetals to metalloids to metals as you move down a group.
For part (c), research which group 5A element is the most abundant in the Earth's crust. Consider the common compounds and minerals that contain these elements and their prevalence in the Earth's crust.
Compile your findings to match each description with the appropriate group 5A element based on the characteristics identified in the previous steps.
Key Concepts
Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.
Group 5A Elements
Group 5A elements, also known as Group 15 in the periodic table, include nitrogen, phosphorus, arsenic, antimony, and bismuth. These elements have five valence electrons, which influence their chemical behavior and oxidation states. Understanding their properties and common oxidation states is crucial for identifying which element fits specific descriptions.
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Group 6A vs. Group 5A Elements
Oxidation States
Oxidation states refer to the degree of oxidation of an atom in a compound, indicating how many electrons an atom has gained, lost, or shared. For Group 5A elements, common oxidation states include -3, +1, +3, and +5. Recognizing the oxidation states helps in predicting the types of compounds formed and their reactivity.
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Metal vs. Non-Metal Characteristics
The distinction between metals and non-metals is essential in chemistry, as it affects physical and chemical properties. Metals, typically found on the left side of the periodic table, are good conductors of heat and electricity, malleable, and ductile. In contrast, non-metals are usually brittle and poor conductors. Identifying whether a Group 5A element is a metal or non-metal is key to answering the question.
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