Understanding the Periodic Table and Ions

What does the atomic number of an element represent?

• The number of neutrons in the nucleus

• The number of electrons in the outer shell

• The number of protons in the nucleus

• The total number of electrons and protons

How does an atom become a cation?

• By gaining electrons

• By losing electrons

• By gaining protons

• By losing protons

Which side of the periodic table contains elements that typically form cations?

• Right side

• Middle section

• Bottom row

• Left side

Which type of elements are found on the right side of the periodic table?

• Nonmetals

• Noble gases

• Metals

• Transition metals

What charge do Group 1 elements typically form?

• Positive two

• Negative one

• Negative two

• Positive one

Which group of elements is known for not forming ions due to full outer shells?

• Group 1

• Group 18

• Group 17

• Group 2

What is the typical charge of ions formed by Group 17 elements?

• Negative one

• Positive one

• Positive two

• Negative two

Which group of elements tends to gain three electrons to form ions?

• Group 13

• Group 1

• Group 17

• Group 15

What is the charge of ions formed by Group 16 elements?

• Negative one

• Positive one

• Positive two

• Negative two

What should you write on your periodic table to help with understanding ion formation?

• Atomic masses

• Electron configurations

• Charges of groups

• Melting points