Topic outline
UNIT1:STRUCTURE OF AN ATOM AND MASS SPECTRUM
Key unit competency
Interpret simple mass spectra and use them to calculate the relative atomic mass
(R.A.M) of different elements.
Learning objectives
By the end of this unit, students should be able to:
• Outline the discovery of the sub-atomic particles.
• Compare the properties of sub-atomic particles.
• Explain what is an isotope of an element.
• Assess the relationship between the number of protons and the number of
electrons.
• Calculate the mass number knowing the number of protons and the
number of neutrons.
• Understand the meaning of relative atomic mass and relative abundances
• Calculate the relative atomic mass of an element, given isotopic masses and
abundances.
• Draw and label the mass spectrometer.
• Explain the fundamental processes occurring in the functioning of a mass
spectrometer.
• Interpret different mass spectra.
• State the uses of the mass spectrometer.• Calculate the relative atomic mass of an element, from a mass spectrum.
2. What do the three diagrams A, B, and C have in common?
3. Based on your knowledge concerning atomic structure, what do you think
that
a) the blue spheres represent? b) the red spheres represent?
Provide explanations.
4. Using the information obtained in question (3) write the atomic symbol for
each of the diagrams.
5. Are there some other particle(s) missing from the above diagrams? If yes name
the particle(s).
6. What could you obtain if the atom is broken down?
Each country has its own culture (language, traditions and norms, attitudes and
values, etc.). Our culture defines our identity which is unique to each Rwandan
citizen and differentiates us from foreigners; if one element of our culture is rejected
or disappears, we become a different Rwandan people. When we introduce foreign
cultures to replace ours, we can lose our identity. However, some of our cultural
elements such as language can be shared with others to build the social relationship.
Similarly, in the atom, the number of protons within the nucleus defines the atomic
number, which is unique to each chemical element; the atomic number or the
number of protons of an atom defines its identity. If a proton is added or removed
from an element, it becomes a different element. Electrons around the nucleus can
be lost, gained, or shared to create bonds with other atoms in chemical reactions to
produce useful substances, but this does not change the identity of the elements
involved.
1.1. Outline of the discovery of the atom's constituents and
their properties
Activity 1.1
1. Regardless of some exceptions, all atoms are composed of the same components.
True or False? If this statement is true why do different atoms
have different chemical properties?
2. The contributions of Joseph John Thomson and Ernest Rutherford led the
way to today’s understanding of the structure of the atom. What were
their contributions?
3. Explain the modern view of the structure of the atom?
4. Using your knowledge about atom, what is the role each particle plays inan atom
1.1.1. Constituents of atoms and their properties
Atoms are the basic units of elements and compounds. In ordinary chemical
reactions, atoms retain their identity. An atom is the smallest identifiable unit of
an element. There are about 91 different naturally occurring elements. In addition,
scientists have succeeded in making over 20 synthetic elements (elements not
found in nature but produced in Laboratories of Reasearch Centers).
An element is defined as a substance that cannot be broken down by ordinary
chemical methods in simpler substances. Some examples of elements include
hydrogen (H), helium (He), potassium (K), carbon (C), and mercury (Hg). In an
element, all atoms have the same number of protons or electrons but the number
of neutrons can vary. A substance made of only one type of atom is also called an
element or elemental substance, for example: hydrogen (H2
), chlorine (Cl2
), sodium
(Na). Elements are the basic building blocks of more complex matter.
A compound is a matter or substance formed by the combination of two or more
different elements in fixed ratios. For example, Hydrogen peroxide (H2
O2
) is a
compound composed of two elements, hydrogen and oxygen, in a fixed ratio (2:2).
During the early twentieth century, scientists discovered that atoms can be divided
into more basic particles. Their findings made it clear that atoms contain a central
portion called the nucleus. The nucleus contains protons and neutrons. Protons
are positively charged, and neutrons are neutral. Whirling around the nucleus are
particles called electrons which are negatively charged. The relative masses andcharges of the three fundamental particles are shown in Table 1.1
The mass of an electron is very small compared with the mass of either a proton or
a neutron.
The charge on a proton is equal in magnitude, but opposite in sign, to the charge
on an electron.
1.1.2. Discovery of the atom constituents.
The oldest description of matter in science was advanced by the Greek philosopher
Democritus in 400 BC.
He suggested that matter can be divided into small particles up to an ultimate
particle that cannot be divided, and called that particle atom. Atoms came from the
Greek word atomos meaning indivisible.
The work of Dalton and other scientists such as Avogadro, etc., contributed more
so that chemistry was beginning to be understood. They proposed new concepts
of atom, and from that moment scientists started to think about the nature of the
atom. What are the constituents of an atom, and what are the features that make
atoms of the various elements different?
In 1808 Dalton published his book called A New System of Chemical Philosophy, in
which he presented his theory of atoms:
a) Dalton’s Atomic Theory
1. Each element is made up of tiny particles called atoms.
2. The atoms of a given element are identical; the atoms of different elements are
different in some fundamental way or ways.
3. Chemical compounds are formed when atoms of different elements combine with
each other. A given compound always has the same relative numbers and types of
atoms.
4. Chemical reactions involve reorganization of the atoms—changes in the way theyare bound together. The atoms themselves are not changed in a chemical reaction.
Figure 1.1: John Dalton’s Atomic Model
b)Discovery of Electrons and Thomson’s Atomic Model
In 1897 J. J. Thomson (1856–1940) and other scientists conducted several
experiments, and found that atoms are divisible. They conducted experiments withgas discharge tubes. A gas discharge tube is shown in Figure 1.2.
Figure 1.2: Gas discharge tube showing cathode rays originating from the cathode
The gas discharge tube is an evacuated glass tube and has two electrodes, a cathode
(negative electrode) and an anode (positive electrode). The electrodes are connected
to a high voltage source. Inside the tube, an electric discharge occurs between the
electrodes.
The discharge or ‘rays’ originate from the cathode and move toward the anode, and
hence are called cathode rays. Using luminescent techniques, the cathode rays are
made visible and it was found that these rays are deflected away from negatively
charged plates. The scientist J. J. Thomson concluded that the cathode ray consists
of negatively charged particles, and later they were called electrons.
Thomson postulated that an atom consisted of a diffuse cloud of positive charge
with the negative electrons embedded randomly in it. This model, shown in Figure
1.3, is often called the plum pudding model because the electrons are like raisinsdispersed in a pudding (the positive charge cloud), as in plum pudding.
Figure 1.3.The plum pudding model of the atom
In 1909 Robert Millikan (1868–1953) conducted the famous charged oil drop
experiment and came to several conclusions: He found the magnitude of the charge
of an electron to be equal to -1.602 x 10-19c. From the charge-to-mass ratio(e/m)
determined by Thomson, the mass of an electron was also calculated.
c)Discovery of Protons and Rutherford’s Atomic Model
Figure 1.4: A cathode-ray tube with a different design and with a perforated cathode
The proton was observed by Ernest Rutherford and James Chadwick in 1919 as aparticle that is emitted by bombardment of certain atoms with α-particles.
Figure 1.5: Rutherford’s experiment on α-particle bombardment of metal foil
Rutherford reasoned that if Thomson’s model were accurate, the massive α-particles
should crash through the thin foil like cannonballs through gauze, as shown in Figure
1.6(a). He expected α-particles to travel through the foil with, at the most, very minor
deflections in their paths. The results of the experiment were very different from
those Rutherford anticipated. Although most of the α- particles passed straight
through, many of the particles were deflected at large angles, as shown in Figure
1.6(b), and some were reflected, never hitting the detector. This outcome was a great
surprise to Rutherford. Rutherford knew from these results that the plum pudding
model for the atom could not be correct. The large deflections of the α-particles
could be caused only by a center of concentrated positive charge that contains most
of the atom’s mass, as illustrated in Figure 1.6(b). Most of the α-particles pass directly
through the foil because the atom is mostly an open space. The deflected α-particles
are those that had a “close encounter” with the massive positive center of the atom,
and the few reflected α-particles are those that made a “direct hit” on the much more
massive positive center.
In Rutherford’s mind these results could be explained only in terms of a nuclear
atom—an atom with a dense center of positive charge (the nucleus) with electronsmoving around the nucleus at a distance that is large relative to the nuclear radius.
d)Discovery of Neutrons
In spite of the success of Rutherford and his co-workers in explaining atomic
structure, one major problem remained unsolved.
If the hydrogen contains one proton and the helium atom contains two protons,
the relative atomic mass of helium should be twice that of hydrogen. However, the
relative atomic mass of helium is four and not two.
This question was answered by the discovery of James Chadwick, English physicist
who showed the origin of the extra mass of helium by bombarding a beryllium foilwith alpha particles. (See figure 1.7)
Figure 1.7. Chadwick’s experiment
In the presence of beryllium, the alpha particles are not detected; but they displace
uncharged particles from the nuclei of beryllium atoms. These uncharged particles
cannot be detected by a charged counter of particles.
However, those uncharged particles can displace positively charged particles from
another substance. They were called neutrons.The mass of the neutron is slightly
greater than that of proton.
Figure 1.8 shows the location of the elementary particles (protons, neutrons, and
electrons) in an atom. There are other subatomic particles, but the electron, the
proton, and the neutron are the three fundamental components of the atom that
are important in chemistry.1.2. Concept of atomic number, mass number, and isotopic
mass
1. Compare the two sodium isotopes in the figures above.
2. From your observation, how do you define the isotopes of an element?
3. How is the mass number, A, determined?
4. What information is provided by the atomic number, Z?
5. What is the relationship between the number of protons and the number of electrons
in an atom?
6. Where are the electrons, protons, and neutrons located in an atom?
7. Why is the mass of an atom concentrated in the center?
8. Sodium-24 and sodium-23 react similarly with other substances. Explain the statement
9. Say which one(s) of the following statements is(are) correct and which one(s) is(are)
wrong: (i) isotopes differ in their number of electrons, (ii) isotopes differ in their mass
numbers, (iii) isotopes differ in their number of protons, (iv) isotopes differ by their
number of neutrons, (v) all the statements are wrong.
The atomic number denotes the number of protons in an atom’s nucleus. The mass
number denotes the total number of protons and neutrons. Protons and neutrons
are often called nucleons. By convention, the atomic number is written on the left
side of the element symbol as a subscript, and the mass number on the same sidebut as a superscript.
Some atoms of the same of element have the same atomic number, but different
mass numbers. This means a different number of neutrons. Such atoms are called
isotopes of the element.
Isotopes are atoms of the same element with different masses; they are atoms containing
the same number of protons but different numbers of neutrons.
In a given atom, the number of protons, also called “atomic number” is equal to the
number of electrons because the atom is electrically neutral. The sum of the number
of protons and neutrons in an atom gives the mass number of that atom.
Mass number = number of protons + number of neutrons= atomic number + neutron number
Atomic number, Mass number, protons, Electrons, Isotopes,
neutron
a) The atomic number tells you how many……………………………. and
……………………………………………………. are in an atom.
......................................................is the number written as subscript on the left of
the atomic symbol.
b) The total number of protons and neutrons in an atom is called the
……………………………………………………………..
c) Atoms with the same number of protons but different number of neutrons are called ………………………………………….
d) The subatomic particle that has no charge is called a………………………………………………
1.3. Calculation of relative atomic mass of elements withisotopes
Relative atomic mass, symbolized as R.A.M or Ar, is defined as the mass of one atom
of an element relative to 1/12 of the mass of an atom of carbon-12, which has a
mass of 12.00 atomic mass units. The relative atomic mass, also known as the atomic
weight or average atomic weight, is the average of the atomic masses of all of the
element’s isotopes.
Relative isotopic mass is like relative atomic mass in that it deals with individual
isotopes. The difference is that we are dealing with different forms of the same
element but with different masses.
Thus, the different isotopic masses of the same elements and the percentage
abundance of each isotope of an element must be known in order to accurately
calculate the relative atomic mass of an element.
Notice: Remember that mass number is not the same as the relative atomic mass or
isotopic mass! The mass number is the number of protons + neutrons; while relative
atomic mass (or isotopic mass) is the mass if you were to somehow weigh it on abalance.
By applying the same formula, the relative abundance of the isotopes may be
calculated knowing the relative atomic mass of the element and the atomic masses
of the respective isotopes.
Example 2: Chlorine contains two isotopes 35Cl and 37Cl, what is the relative abundance of
each isotope in a sample of chlorine if its relative atomic mass is 35.5?Solution:
3. Inlet system is also known as which of the following?
a) Initial system
b) Sample reservoir
c) Sample handling systemd) Element injection system
The mass spectrometer is an instrument that separates positive gaseous atoms
and molecules according to their mass-charge ratio and records the resulting mass
spectrum.
In the mass spectrometer, atoms and molecules are converted into ions. The ions are
separated as a result of the deflection which occurs in the magnetic field.
The basic components of a mass spectrometer are: vaporisation chamber (to
produce gaseous atoms or molecules), ionization chamber (to produce positive
ions), accelerating chamber (to accelerate the positive ions to a high and constant
velocity), magnetic field (to separate positive ions of different m/z ratios), detector
(to detect the number and m/z ratio of the positive ions) and the recorder (to plotthe mass spectrum of the sample)
A mass spectrometer works in five main stages, namely vaporization, ionization,
acceleration, deflection, and detection to produce the mass spectrum.
Stage 1: Vaporization
At the beginning the test sample is heated until it becomes vapour and is introduced
as a vapour into the ionization chamber. When a sample is a gas, it can directly be
introduced into the ionization chamber.
Stage 2: Ionisation
The vaporized sample passes into the ionization chamber (with a positive voltage of
about 10,000 volts). The electrically heated metal coil gives off electrons which are
attracted to the electron trap which is a positively charged plate.
The particles in the sample (atoms or molecules) are therefore bombarded with a
stream of electrons (from the electrons gun), and some of the collisions are energetic
enough to knock one or more electrons out of the sample particles to make positive
ions. Mass spectrometers always work with positive ions.
Most of the positive ions formed will carry a charge of +1 because it is much more
difficult to remove further electrons from an already positively charged ion.
Most of the sample molecules are not ionized at all but are continuously drawn off by
vacuum pumps which are connected to the ionization chamber (figure 1.9). Some of
the molecules are converted to negative ions through the absorption of electrons.
Figure 1.10: A typical ionisation chamber and the nearby accelerating plates
The repeller plate absorbs these negative ions. A small proportion of the positive
ions which are formed may have a charge greater than one (a loss of more than one
electron). These are accelerated in the same way as the singly charged positive ions.
Stage 3: Acceleration
The positive ions are accelerated by an electric field so that they move rapidly
through the machine at high and constant velocity.
Stage 4: Deflection
The ions are then deflected by a magnetic field according to their mass to charge
ratios. Different ions are deflected by the magnetic field at different extents. The
extent to which the beam of ions is deflected depends on four factors:
1. The magnitude of the accelerating voltage (electric field strength). Higher voltages
result in beams of more rapidly moving particles to be deflected less than the
beams of the more slowly moving particles produced by lower voltages.
2. Magnetic field strength. Stronger fields deflect a given beam more than weaker
fields.
3. Masses of the particles. Because of their inertia, heavier particles are deflected less
than lighter particles that carry the same charge.
4. Charges on the particles. Particles with higher charges interact more strongly with
magnetic fields and are thus deflected more than particles of equal mass with
smaller charges
The two last factors (mass of the ion and charge on the ion) are combined into the
mass/charge ratio. Mass/charge ratio is given the symbol m/z (or sometimes m/e).
For example, if an ion had a mass of 28 and a charge of 1+, its mass/charge ratio
would be 28. An ion with a mass of 56 and a charge of 2+ would also have a mass/charge ratio of 28.
In the figure 1.11 above, ion stream A is most deflected: it will contain ions with the
smallest mass/charge ratio. Ion stream C is the least deflected: it contains ions with
the greatest mass/charge ratio. Assuming 1+ ions, stream A has the lightest ions,
stream B the next lightest and stream C the heaviest. Lighter ions are going to be
more deflected than heavy ones.
Stage 5: Detection
The beam of ions passing through the machine is detected electrically. As they
pass out of the magnetic field, ions are detected by an ion detector which records the
position of the ions on the screen and the number of ions that hit the screen at each
position. These two pieces of information are used to produce a mass spectrum for
the sample.
A flow of electrons in the wire is detected as an electric current which can be
amplified and recorded. The more ions arriving, the greater the current.
Detecting the other ions
How might the other ions be detected (those in streams A and C which have been
lost in the machine)?
Remember that stream A was most deflected. To bring them on to the detector, you
would need to deflect them less by using a smaller magnetic field.
To bring those with a larger m/z value (the heavier ions if the charge is +1) to the
detector you would have to deflect them more by using a larger magnetic field.
If you vary the magnetic field, you can bring different ion streams, one at a time
on the detector to produce a current which is proportional to the number of ions
arriving. The mass of each ion being detected is related to the size of the magnetic
field used to bring it on to the detector. The machine can be calibrated to recordRecorder
The detector of a typical instrument consists of a counter which produces a current
that is proportional to the number of ions which strike it. Through the use of electron
multiplier circuits, this current can be measured so accurately that the current caused
by just one ion striking the detector can be measured. The signal from the detector is
fed to a recorder, which produces the mass spectrum. In modern instruments, the
output of the detector is fed through an interface to a computer. The computer can
store the data, provide the output in both tabular and graphic forms, and compare
the data to standard spectra, which are contained in spectra libraries also stored inthe computer.
This is an example a mass spectrum of unknown element that has 2 isotopes.
Checking up 1.4
1. Use the list of the words given below to fill in the blank spaces. Each word
will be used once.
Vaporization chamber, mass spectrum, velocity, ionization, deflection,
detector, acceleration
A sample of the element is placed in the _________ where it is converted
into gaseous atoms. The gaseous atoms are ionized by bombardment of
high energy electrons emitted by a hot cathode to become positive ions (in
practice, the voltage in the ________chamber is set in such a way that only one
electron is removed from each atom). The positive ions (with different masses)
are then given a high and constant _________by two negatively charged
plates: the process is called_________. The positive ions are then deflected by
the magnet field. This process is called ____________ (ions with smaller mass
will be deflected more than the heavier ones). These ions are then detected
by the ion _________. The information is fed into a computer which prints out
the________ of the element.
2. The correct order for the basic features of a mass spectrometer is...
a. acceleration, deflection, detection, ionization
b. ionisation, acceleration, deflection, detection
c. acceleration, ionisation, deflection, detection
d. acceleration, deflection, ionisation, detection
3. Which one of the following statements about ionisation in a mass spectrometer
is incorrect?
a. gaseous atoms are ionised by bombarding them with high energy electrons
b. atoms are ionised so they can be accelerated
c. atoms are ionised so they can be deflected
d. it doesn’t matter how much energy you use to ionise the atoms
4. The path of ions after deflection depends on...
a. only the mass of the ion
b. only the charge on the ion
c. both the charge and the mass of the ion
d. neither the charge nor the mass of the ion5. Which of the following species will be deflected to the greatest extent?
6. Which of the following separates the ions according to their mass-to-charge
ratios?
a) Ion source
b) Detector
c) Magnetic sectord) Electric sector
1.5. Interpretation of mass spectra.
The mass spectrum of an element shows how you can find out the masses and
relative abundances of the various isotopes of the element and use that information
to calculate the relative atomic mass of the element.
The relative size of the peaks gives you a direct measure of the relative abundances
of the isotopes. The tallest peak is often given an arbitrary height of 100 but you
may find other scales used; it doesn’t matter. You can find the relative abundances
by measuring the lines on the stick diagram.In this case, the two isotopes (with their relative abundances) are:
a. How many isotopes does magnesium possess
b. Estimate the isotopic mass of each of the magnesium isotopes
c. Estimate the relative abundance for each of the isotopes of magnesium
1.6. Uses of the mass spectrometer and involved calculations
Activity 1.6
1. Mass spectrometers are used to determine which of the following?
a) The atomic mass
b)Composition in sample
c) Concentration of elements in sample
2. The mass spectrum of an element, A, contained four lines at mass/charge
of 54; 56; 57 and 58 with relative intensities of 5.84; 91.68; 2.17; 0.31
respectively. Explain these data and calculate the relative atomic mass of A
1.6.1. Calculation of RAM using mass spectrum
When the mass spectrum of the element is given, you can calculate the relativeatomic mass of that element by using the information from the mass spectrum.
1.6.2. Uses of mass spectrometer
In addition to the use of mass spectrometer in the determination of isotopes of
elements and their relative abundances, other applications of mass spectrometry
are:
• Pharmaceutical: drug discovery, combinatorial chemistry, pharmacokinetics,
drug metabolism.
• Clinical: neonatal screening, haemoglobin analysis, drug testing.
• Environmental: water quality, soil and groundwater contamination, food
contamination, pesticides on foods.
• Geological: oil composition.• Biotechnological: the analysis of proteins, peptides
Checking up 1.6
1. Which of the following is not done through mass spectrometry?
a. Calculating the isotopic abundance of elements
b. Investigating the elemental composition of planets
c. Confirming the presence of O-H and C=O in organic compounds
d. Calculating the molecular mass of organic compounds
2. Mass spectra enable you to find relative abundances of the isotopes of a
particular element.
a) What are isotopes?
b) Define relative atomic mass.
c) The mass spectrum of strontium contains the following relative abundancesfor 1+ ions:
a) Explain why there are two separate groups of peaks.
b) State what causes each of the 5 lines.
c) Explain the approximate relative heights of the lines at 35 and 37.
d) Why cannot you predict the relative heights of the two clusters of lines (35/37and 70/72/74)?
1.7. End unit assessment
I. Multiple choice questions
1.Which of the following is true regarding a typical atom?
a. Neutrons and electrons have the same mass.
b. The mass of neutrons is much less than that of electrons.
c. Neutrons and protons together make the nucleus electrically neutral.
d. Protons are more massive than electrons
2. Which of the following statements is(are) true? For the false statements,
correct them.
a. All particles in the nucleus of an atom are charged.
b. The atom is best described as a uniform sphere of matter in which
electrons are embedded.
c. The mass of the nucleus is only a very small fraction of the mass of the
entire atom.
d. The volume of the nucleus is only a very small fraction of the total
volume of the atom.
e. The number of neutrons in a neutral atom must equal the number of
electrons.
3. Each of the following statements is true, but Dalton might have had trouble
explaining some of them with his atomic theory. Give explanations for the
following statements.
a. Atoms can be broken down into smaller particles.
b. One sample of lithium hydride is 87.4% lithium by mass, while another
sample of lithium hydride is 74.9% lithium by mass. However, the two
samples have the same chemical properties
4. In mass spectrometer, the sample that has to be analysed is bombarded
with which of the following?
a. Protons
b. Electrons
c. Neutronsd. Alpha particles
5. Mass spectrometer separates ions on the basis of which of the following?
a. Mass
b. Charge
c. Molecular weight
d. Mass to charge ratio
6. In a mass spectrometer, the ions are sorted out in which of the following
ways?
a. By accelerating them through electric field
b. By accelerating them through magnetic field
c. By accelerating them through electric and magnetic field
d. By applying a high voltage
7. The procedure for mass spectroscopy starts with which of the following
processes?
a. The sample is bombarded by electron beam
b. The sample is accelerated by electric plates
c. The sample is converted into gaseous state
d. The ions are detected
8. Which of the following ions pass through the slit and reach the collecting
plate?
a. Negative ions of all masses
b. Positive ions of all masses
c. Negative ions of specific mass
d. Positive ions of specific mass
9. Which of the following statements is not true about mass spectrometry?
a. Impurities of masses different from the one being analysed interferes with
the result
b. It has great sensitivity
c. It is suitable for data storage
d. It is suitable for library retrieval
10. In a mass spectrometer, the sample gas is introduced into the highly
evacuated spectrometer tube and it is ionised by the electron beam.
a. True
b. False
II. Short and long answer questions
11. What are the three fundamental particles from which atoms are built? What
are their electric charges? Which of these particles constitute the nucleus of
an atom? Which is the least massive particle of the fundamental particles?
12. Verify that the atomic weight of lithium is 6.94, given the followinginformation:
a. Describe the different steps involved in ionizing the particles of a sample
b. (i) Which two properties of the ions determine how much they are
deflected by the magnetic field? What effect does each of these
properties have on the extent of deflection?
(ii) Of the three different ion streams in the previous diagram, why is the
ion stream C least deflected?
(iii) What would you have to do to focus the ion stream C on the detector?
c. Why is it important that there is a vacuum in the instrument?
d. Describe briefly how the detector works.
14. (a) A mass spectrum of a sample of indium shows two peaks at m/z = 113
and m/z = 115. The relative atomic mass of indium is 114.5. Calculate the
relative abundances of these two isotopes.
(b)The mass spectrum of the sample of magnesium contains three peaks with
the mass-to-charge ratios and relative intensities shown belowi. Explain why magnesium gives three peaks in mass spectrum?
UNIT 2:ELECTRONIC CONFIGURATION OF ATOMS AND IONS
UNIT 2: ELECTRONIC CONFIGURATION OF ATOMS
AND IONS
Key unit Competence
To relate Bohr’s atomic model with atomic spectrum of Hydrogen, write electronic
configuration of atoms and ions using s, p, d and f atomic orbitals and interpret
graphical information related to ionization energy of elements.
Learning objectives
By the end of this unit, students should be able to:
• Explain the stability of atoms using the concept of quantization of energy.
• Explain the achievements and limitations of Bohr’s atomic model.
• Explain the existence of energy levels using the data from emission spectra.
• Describe hydrogen spectral lines and spectral line series
• Explain the types of spectra in relation with the nature of light
• Explain the quantum theory of the atom using the quantum numbers.
• Determine the number and shapes of orbitals in a given energy level or
principal quantum number
• Explain the rules governing the electronic configuration: Aufbau principle
and Hund’s rule
• Explain the relationship between the electronic configuration and the
stability of the atoms
• Interpret the graphs of first ionisation energy against the atomic number.• Describe the factors which influence the first ionisation energy.
1. What can you see on the image above?
2. What type of motion is performed by the people on the image?
3. How does their potential energy change?
2.1. Bohr’s atomic model and concept of energy levels
The potential energy of a person walking up ramp increases in a uniform and
continuous manner whereas the potential energy of a person walking up steps
increases in a stepwise and quantized manner. This can be explained by the values of
energy which are continuous for the person walking up ramp while they are discrete
(discontinued) for the person walking up steps (Figure 2.1(a) and Figure 2.1(b).
Niels Bohr (1885-1962) a young Danish physicist working in Rutherford’s laboratory,
suggested a model for the hydrogen atom and predicted the existence of line
spectra. In his model, based on Planck’s and Einstein’s ideas about quantized energy,
Bohr proposed three postulates:
• An electron can rotate around the nucleus in certain fixed orbits of definite
energy without emission of any radiant energy. Such orbits are calledstationary orbits.
• An atom can make a transition from its stationary state of higher energy
E2
to a state of lower energy E1 and emit a single photon of frequency ν.
Conversely, an atom can absorb an energy at the lower level E1
and transit
to the higher energy level E2
. That is, the change in energy for a system,
,which can be represented by the equation:
where n is an integer (1,2,3,…) and h is Planck’s constant
determined from experiment and has a value of 6.626x10-34J.s; ⱱ is the frequency of
the electromagnetic radiation absorbed or emitted. Each of these small “packets”
of energy is called a photon or a quantum of energy. Energy can be gained or lost
only in whole-number multiples of the quantity hν ,
That is, the change in energy for a system can be represented by the equation:
, where n is an integer (1,2,3,…).
An electron does not release energy when it is in its stationary orbit. That is, the
electron does not change energy while it is moving around on a given orbit.
When an electron on a given orbit absorbs an appropriate quantum of energy, it
jumps, it is promoted to a higher energy level; this process is called “excitation” of
electron. On the contrary, if the electron loses an appropriate quantum of energy,
it falls on the lower energy level by emission of a light corresponding to the lost
quantum of energy and the process is called “de-excitation” of electron. As there
are many energy levels electrons can be excited to and de-excited from, an atom
will have many lines of absorption, each corresponding to a quantum of energy
absorbed: this appears as a series of lines called absorption spectrum. In the same
way the series of emission lines will produce an emission spectrum( see figure 2.3.a)
2.1.1. Achievements of Bohr’s Atomic Model
• Explanation of the stability of an atom
Based on Rutherford’s atomic model, the electrons move around the nucleus in
circular paths called orbits. According to the classical theory of electromagnetism,
a charged particle revolving around a charged nucleus would release energy and
end up by spiraling into the nucleus; thus the atoms would be unstable. The Bohr’s
atomic model makes an assumption of discrete orbit (allowed orbits) to explain
why an atom is stable; by doing so, Bohr introduces the concept of quantization of
energy.
• Explanation of the production of the absorption and emission spectra
The Bohr’s atomic model explains the origin of atomic absorption and emission
spectra.
2.1.2. Limitations of Bohr Model
1.Bohr’s theory fails to explain the origin of the spectral lines of multi-electron
atoms.
It only explains the origin of the spectrum of hydrogen-like species having only one
electron such as H, He+, Li2+, Be2+, ........
The model fails to explain the spectral lines of atoms or species with more than one
electron.
2. According to Bohr, the circular orbits in which electrons revolve are planar.
However, modern research has shown that an electron moves around the nucleus in
the three dimensional space.
3. Bohr’s theory fails to account for Zeeman Effect and Stark Effect. Zeeman Effect
is the splitting of the spectral lines into thinner and closely- spaced lines when an
excited atom is placed in a magnetic field. Stark Effect consists of the splitting of the
spectral lines into thinner and closely-spaced lines in presence of electric field.
4. Bohr’s theory is in contradiction with Heisenberg’s uncertainty principle. Bohr
assumes that the electron revolves around the nucleus in circular orbits at fixed
distance from the nucleus and with a fixed velocity. However, according to W.
Heisenberg, it is not possible to know simultaneously the accurate position and the
velocity of a very small moving particle such as an electron.
Checking up 2.1
1. Find out two more examples that you can use to illustrating the concept of
quantization.
2. Discuss the main weakness of Rutherford’s nuclear atom.2.2. Hydrogen spectrum and spectral lines
Activity 2.2
Bohr’s atomic model allows to explain the emission spectra of atoms. This happens
when excited electrons lose energy in form of electromagnetic radiation and fall tolower energy levels.
The wave-particle nature of the light
Light as a wave
The light is a wave-like phenomenon as shown in Figure 2.2.
It is characterized by its wavelengths, generally symbolized by the Greek letter
lambda, λ, and its frequency, represented by the Greek letter nu1
, ν.
As shown in the Figure below, the wavelength represents the distance between two
(Source: http://psychelic-information-theory.com/em_spectrum)successive summits/peaks (or two successive troughs).The frequency represents the
number of complete wavelengths made by the light per second, also called cycles
per second.
Visible light is composed by different visible lights with different λ and ν.
But all those lights have the same speed, the speed of light, which, in a vacuum, is
1 The letter gamma, γ, may also be used
When an electron is excited or de-excited, the energy absorbed or emitted
corresponds to the difference of energy, ΔE, between the final energy level of the
electron, E2, and the starting energy level of the electron, E1: E2 – E1 = ΔE = hν. ΔE is
positive when E2>E1, this is the case of absorption and excitation of electron; on the
other hand ΔE may be negative when E2<E1, in case of emission and de-excitation
of electron.
Figure 2.4 below shows the different series of emission spectra of hydrogen. As
you can see, the difference between those series is the final energy level where the
electron fall after de-excitation.
The series have been named according to the scientists who discovered them.
Ionization of an atom or loss of an electron corresponds to excitation of an electronto the level n=∞.
Figure 2.3.a: continious, absorption and emission spectraChecking2.2
1. What is the meaning of infinity level in the hydrogen spectral lines?
2. Given a transition of an electron from n=5 to n=2. Calculate
i) energy
ii) Frequencyiii) Wavelength
2.3. Atomic spectra
Activity 2.3
Observe the picture above, discuss in groups and answer the following
questions.
a. What do you see on the above photo?
b. State the physical phenomenon which is related to the above photo.
c. Think of any other means of producing the same pattern. List two of them.
d. What property can you attribute to light with reference to the above process?
The atomic spectrum is the range of characteristic frequencies or electromagnetic
radiations that are readily absorbed or emitted by an atom. It is also known as a line
spectrum.
When white light is passed through a prism, we see a myriad of colors – specifically
what we call a rainbow. This dispersion of white light demonstrates that white light
contains all the wavelengths of radiations and is thus considered to be continuous.
Each color blends into the next with no discontinuity and we get continuous or light
spectrum.
When elements are vaporized and then thermally excited, they emit light. However,
this light is not in the form of a continuous spectrum as observed with white light.
Instead, a discrete line spectrum is seen. A series of fine lines of different colors
separated by large black spaces is observed. The wavelengths of those lines are
characteristic of the element producing them – thus, elements can be identified
based on the spectral line data that they produce.
Two types of atomic spectra are known: Emission and absorption spectra.
1. Emission is the ability of a substance to give off light when it interacts with
heat.
2. Absorption is the opposite of emission, where energy, light or radiation is
absorbed by the electrons of a matter.
NB: A combination of the emission and absorption spectra of a given atom gives acontinuous spectra.
Checking up 2.3
1. Different metals, when exposed to a flame, emit different flame colors.
Explain the origin of that difference.
2. Would you expect to see the emission of lines and the absorption lines
of a given element to appear at the same place on a photographic plate
or not. Explain your answer.3. How do you explain the many spectral lines for the same element?
2.4 Orbitals and Quantum Numbers
Activity 2.4
1. a)Write the electronic configuration of aluminium atom(Z=13)
b) Indicate the number of electrons in each energy level/quantum shell
c) The shells are numbered from inside-outward starting from 1, 2, 3, 4 …
which other name is given to these shells?
d) How did you obtain the exact number of electrons in each energy level/quantum shell in (c) above?
To answer the questions that could not be answered by Bohr’s atomic model, other
atomic models were proposed. One of those models is the Quantum model that
has been developed by the Austrarian physicist Erwin Schrödinger (1887-1961).
The model is based on a mathematical equation called Schrödinger equation. This
model is based on the following assumptions or hypotheses:
• An electron moves around the nucleus continuously. However, it is not
possible to determine its precise position and velocity at the same time. We
can only determine the region, around the nucleus, where there is a high
probability of finding that electron at a given time.
• The region where the probability of finding electron is high, at more than
95%, is called “orbital”; in other words, the orbital is the volume or the
space (tridimensional) around the nucleus where there is a high probability
of finding the electron.
Without going into the mathematical development of the Schrödinger equation, we
can say that the energy of the electron depends on the orbital where it is located.
And an atomic orbital is described by a certain number of “quantum numbers”
according to the solution of Schrodinger equation, i.e. 3 whole numbers:
1) The principal quantum number is a positive integer which varies from 1
to ∞. The principal quantum number indicates the energy level in an atom where
electrons can be located: the higher the n value, the higher the energy level. An
electron in energy level n=1 has lowest energy in an atom. The principal quantum
number, n, has been traditionally given names with the letters: K(n=1), L(n=2),M(n=3), N(n=4), O(n=5), P(n=6)
2)The angular momentum quantum number (l)
The second quantum number is the angular momentum quantum number
represented by the letter, l: it is an integer which can take any value from zero or
higher but less than n-1, i.e. equal to: 0,1, 2, 3,….up to n-1. For example if n= 1, l
is equal to 0, if n= 2, l can be 0, 1. It is also called secondary or azimuthal quantum
number. It indicates the shape of the orbital and is sometimes called the orbital
shape quantum number. By tradition, those different shapes of orbitals have been
given names or letter symbols: l = 0 = s, l =1 = p, l = 2 = d, l=3 = f
3) Magnetic quantum number (ml)
The magnetic quantum number describes the orientation of the orbital. It is an
integer that varies from -l to +l. For example if: l = 0, ml
can only be 0; if l = 1, ml =
-1, 0, +1; if l=2, ml
= -2, -1, 0, 1, 2. As you can see for each value of l there are (2l+ 1)
values of ml corresponding to (2l + 1) orientations under the influence of magnetic
field. The s orbital where l is zero and ml has no orientation; it has the shape of asphere as shown in figure 2.4
4) The spin quantum number (S)
The fourth quantum number is the spin quantum number, represented by the
symbol S (or ms
in some books). The electron behaves as a spinning magnet.The
spin quantum number is the property of the electron, not the orbital.
This number describes the spinning direction of the electron in a magnetic field.
The direction could be either clockwise or counterclockwise. The electron behaves
as if it were spinning about its axis, thereby generating a magnetic field whose
direction depends on the direction of the spin. The two directions for the magnetic
field correspond to the two possible values for the spin quantum number, S (ms).Only two values are possible: s = +1/2 and -1/2 as shown in the Figure 2.7 below.
Orbital box representation
An orbital box representation consists of a box for each orbital in a given energy
level, grouped by sublevel, with an arrow indicating an electron and its spin.
Note that two electrons in the same orbital have necessarily opposite spins as
indicated in the examples below.
The table 2.4 shows the electronic configuration of some elements using orbital box
representation and applying Hund’s rule.
N.B: An orbital box representation doesn’t show the real form of the orbital; the forms of thedifferent orbitals are shown in Figures 2.4, 2.5 and 2.6.
Noble Gas Notation
All noble gases have completely filled subshells and can be used as a shorthand way
of writing electron configurations for subsequent atoms.
When using this method, the following steps are respected.
a. Identify the noble gas whose electronic configuration is included in that of
the concerned element.
b.Write the chemical symbol of the identified noble gas within square brackets.
We call this the noble gas core.
c. Add electrons beyond the noble gas core. Note that electrons that are added to the electronic level of the highest principal quantum number (theoutermost level or valence shell) are called valence electrons.
2.6. Relationship between ionization energy, energy levels
and factors influencing ionization energy
2.6.1. Concept of Ionization energy
The ionization energy is a measure of the energy needed for an atom, in gaseous
state, to lose an electron and become positive ion.
The first ionisation energy is the energy required to remove one mole of electrons
from one mole of atoms in their gaseous state. The example below shows how torepresent the successive ionization energies of an atom M.
b) To remove the second electron needs greater energy because this electron is closer
to the nucleus in a 2p orbital. There is a steady increase in energy required as electrons are removed from 2p and then 2s-orbitals.
c) The removal of the tenth and eleventh electrons requires much greater amounts
of energy, because these electrons are closer to the nucleus in 1s orbital.
2.6.3. Factors influencing the extent of ionization energy
The ionization energy is a physical property of elements that can be influenced by
some factors:
1) Size of atom
The atomic size is the distance between the nucleus and valence shell. As the
number of energy levels (shells) increases, the force of attraction between nucleus
and valence electron decreases. Therefore, the valence electrons are loosely held
by the nucleus and lower energy is required to remove them, i.e. ionization energy
decreases with an increase in atomic size and vice versa.This is what happens when
you go down a Group.
2) Nuclear charge
The nuclear charge is the total charge of all the protons in the nucleus. As the nuclear
charge increases, the force of attraction between nucleus and valence electrons
increases and hence makes it difficult to remove an electron from the valence
shell. The higher the nuclear charge, the higher the ionization energy. This is what
happens when you cross a period from left to right.
3) Screening effect or Shielding effect
The Screening effect or Shielding effect is due to the presence of inner electrons
which have a screening or shielding effect against the attraction of the nucleus
towards the outermost electrons. The electrons present in inner shells between
the nucleus and the valence shell reduce the attraction between nucleus and the
outermost electrons. This shielding effect increases with the increasing number
of inner electrons. A strong Shielding effect makes it easier to remove an external
electron and hence lowers the ionisation energy.
2.6.4. Importance of ionization energy in the determination of the
chemistry of an element
Ionization energy provides a basis to understand the chemistry of an element. The
following information is provided.
Determination of metallic or non- metallic character.
The I.E informs us how the atom will behave chemically: a low I.E indicates that the
element behaves as metal whereas a high I.E indicates that the element behaves as
non-metal.
The first ionization energies of metals are all nearly below 800kJ mol-1 while those of
non- metals are all generally above 800 kJ mol-1.
Down the group ionization energies decrease so that the elements became more
metallic. In groups 14 and 15 there is change from non metallic to metallic character.
Across a period from left to right 1st I.E. increases. The elements become less metallic
to non- metallic
2.7. End unit assessment
1. Which of the following is the correct representation of the ground-state
electron configuration of molybdenum? Explain what is wrong with eachof the others
12. Four possible electron configurations for a nitrogen atom are shown below, but only one represents the correct configuration for a nitrogen atom
in its ground state. Which one is the correct electron configuration? Which
configurations violate the Pauli Exclusion Principle? Which configurationsviolate Hund’s rule?
a) What factors determine the magnitude of the first ionization energy?
b. To which group does element W belong? Explain
c. Would you expect W to be a metal or a non-metal? Explain your answer.d. Write an equation representing the second ionization of W.
UNIT 3:FORMATION OF IONIC AND METALLIC BONDS
UNIT 3: FORMATION OF IONIC AND METALLIC
BONDS
Key unit competence
Describe how properties of ionic compounds and metals are related to the nature
of their bonding
Learning objectives
By the end of this unit, student should be able to:
• Explain why atoms bond together;
• Explain the mechanisms by which atoms of different elements attain
stability;
• Explain the formation of ionic bonds using different examples;
• Represent ionic bonding by dot-and-cross diagrams;
• Describe the properties of ionic compounds based on observations;
• Perform experiments to show properties of ionic compounds;
• Assemble experimental set up appropriately and carefully;
• State the factors that influence the magnitude of lattice energy ;
• Relate the lattice structure of metals to their physical properties;
• Describe the formation of metallic bonds;
• State the physical properties of metals and forces of attraction that holdatoms of metal
Introductory Activity
1. Look at the pictures below and answer the following questions. Record
your answers.
a. Observe carefully pictures A, B and C and suggest the similarity between
them.
b. What can you say about the arrangement of chloride and sodium ions inthe pictures below? c. What holds the chloride and sodium ions together?
People like to bond with each other for many reasons such as: to unite their forces
and be stronger, to exchange ideas and produce big things, to found a family, etc. We
cannot live in isolation. This inseparability of people can result into strong or weak
connection. Similarly, atoms can bond together to form strong or weak connections.
Some atoms may not need to bond with others; they are self-sufficient as some
people, a small number, may be self-sufficient.
Connections between atoms are called chemical bonds. Solids are one of the three
fundamental states of matter. In molecules, atoms or ions are held together by
forces called chemical bonds.There are 3 types of chemical bonds: Ionic, Covalent
and Metallic bonds.
The type of a bond in molecules is determined by the nature and properties of
the bonding atoms. However, in this unit we will only focus on ionic and metallic
bonding.3.1. Stability of atoms and why they bind together
Activity 3.1
1. In pairs discuss and write electronic configuration of sodium , neon, argon,
magnesium, aluminium, oxygen and chlorine
2. What happens when oxygen and chlorine gain electrons?
3. What happens when sodium, magnesium and aluminium lose electrons?
4. Discuss how atoms of elements can gain their stabilities by either losing or
gaining electron(s) on the valence shells and show with evidence that an atom
is stable.
5. How does the formation of an ionic bond between sodium and chlorine reflect
the octet rule?
Like people always relate and connect to others depending on their values,
interests, and goals, so do the unstable atoms combine to achieve stability.
We know that noble gases are the most stable and unreactive elements in the
periodic table. They do not tend to form compounds or combine to themselves
What do the noble gases have in common? They have a filled outer electron energy
level. When an atom loses, gains, or shares electrons through bonding to achieve
a filled outermost energy level, the resulting compound is often more stable than
individual separate atoms. Neutral sodium has one valence electron. When it gives
this electron to chlorine, the resulting Na+ cation has an outermost energy level thatcontains eight electrons
It is isoelectronic (same electronic configuration) with the noble gas neon. On the
other hand, chlorine has an outer electron energy level that contains seven electrons.
When chlorine gains sodium’s electron, it becomes an anion that is isoelectronic
with the noble gas argon.
The following are examples of how magnesium bonds with oxygen and calciumwith chlorine:
3.2. Ionic bonding
Atoms have many ways of combining together to achieve the octet structure, and
one of them is the formation of an ionic bond.
In an ionic bond, electrons are transferred from one atom to another so that they form
oppositely charged ions; in other words, one atom loses electron(s) andthe other
gains electrons(s).The resulting strong force of attraction between the oppositelycharged ions is what holds them together. Ionic bonding is the electrostatic
attraction between positive and negative ions in an ionic crystal lattice.
3.2.1. Formation of ionic bond
Activity 3.2
Draw diagrams to illustrate the formation of ionic compounds in magnesium
oxide, magnesium chloride, sodium peroxide, and sodium sulphide.
The transfer of electrons from one atom to another followed by attraction
between positive and negative ions is called ionic bonding. This type of bonding
occurs between metals and non-metals. The compounds formed are called ionic
compounds. As stated previously, metals try to lose their outer electrons while non
metals look to gain electrons to obtain a full outer shell. When metals lose their
outer electrons they form positively charged ions called cations. When non-metals
gain electrons they form negatively charged ions called anions. An example isshown below:
Checking Up 3.2
1. For each of the following ionic bonds: Sodium + Chlorine, Magnesium + Iodine,
Sodium + Oxygen, Calcium + Chlorine and Aluminium + Chlorine
a. Write the symbols for each element.
b. Draw a Lewis dot structure for the valence shell of each element.
c. Draw an arrow (or more if needed) to show the transfer of electrons to the
new element.
d. Write the resulting chemical formula.
e. Write the electron configurations for each ion that is formed. Ex. H1+ = 1s0
2. Solid sodium chloride and solid magnesium oxide are both held together by
ionic (electrovalent) bonds.
a. Using s,p and d notation write down the symbol for and the electronic
configuration of (i) a sodium ion; (ii) a chloride ion; (iii) a magnesium ion; (iv)
an oxide ion.
b. Explain what holds sodium and chloride ions together in the solid
crystal
c. Sodium chloride melts at 1074 K; magnesium oxide melts at 3125 K.
Both have identical structures. Why is there such a difference in theirmelting points?
3.2.2. Physical properties of ionic compounds
Activity 3.3(a)
Determination of Relative Melting Point of different substances
Procedure:
1. Cut a square of aluminum foil that is about5 by 5 cm
2. Set up a ring stand with an iron ring attached.
3. Place the aluminum square on the iron ring, as shown at right in Figure 3.6
4. Obtain a small pea-sized sample of NaCl. Place the sample on the aluminum
foil, about 5cm from the center of the square.
5. Obtain a small pea-sized sample of table sugar. Place the sample on the
aluminum foil, about 1 cm from the center of the square, but in the opposite
direction from the salt.
6. Your square of aluminum foil should look like in Figure 3.7.
7. Light the Bunsen burner and adjust the flame height so that the tip of the
flame is just a cm or so below the height of the aluminum foil.
8. Observe as the two compounds heat up.
9. Set up another sheet of aluminum foil and determine the relative melting
points (low vs. high) of the four unknowns.
10. Record your results in the table 3.1 belowCaution: if the compounds burn with sparks do not panic.
Conclusions:
The melting points of ionic compounds are higher than those of covalent
compounds; this is due to strong electrostatic forces between opposite charges in
the ionic substances compared to the week forces of attraction between molecules
in covalent substances . This also explains why all ionic compounds are solid at roomtemperature
Activity 3.3(b)
Conductivity in Solution
Procedure:
1. Dissolve a spoonful of NaCl in water.
2. Connect the apparatus as shown in figure 3.8
3. Make an observation and record your results as in table 3.2 below
4. Repeat the procedure 1 to 3 above using sugar solution, ethanol and
copper(II) sulfate solution5. Record your results in the table below.
Study questions:
1. Give reasons for your observations above.
2. Solid sodium chloride does not conduct electricity whereas an aqueous
solution of sodium chloride does. Explain
Conclusion:
Based on our tests with salt and sugar, the ability to conduct electricity in solution of
ionic compounds is much higher than in covalent compounds.
Activity 3.3(c) Solubility test
Procedure:
1. Using forceps, place 5-8 crystals of each of sodium chloride, magnesium
chloride, copper sulphate, calcium carbonate, copper carbonate, sodium
sulphate (a small pinch) of the compound into one of the test tubes in test
tube rack.
2. Half-fill the test tube with distilled water and stir with a clean stirring rod.
3. Observe if the crystals dissolve in water.4. Record your findings in a suitable table.
Conclusion:
Water is a good solvent for many ionic compounds but not a solvent for covalent
compounds, apart from few exceptions (you will learn about later on).
Shattering: Why are Ionic compounds generally hard, but brittle?
It takes a large amount of mechanical force, such as striking a crystal with a hammer,
to force one layer of ions to shift relative to its neighbour. However, when that
happens, it brings ions of the same charge next to each other (Figure3.9). The
repulsive forces between like-charged ions cause the crystal to shatter. When an
ionic crystal breaks, it tends to do so along smooth planes because of the regulararrangement of the ions.
Checking Up 3.3
1. The diagrams below show the electric conductivity of distilled water, solid
sodium chloride and a solution of sodium chloride respectively. Use the
diagrams to explain the observations from the set up.
i) no light is given out by bulb in A
ii) no light is given out by bulb in B
iii) light is given out in C
2.Why are ionic compounds brittle?
3.Why do ionic compounds have high melting points?
4.What happens when an electric current is passed through a solution of anionic compound?
3.2.3. Lattice energy
Activity 3.4
By using information in this student’s chemistry book and other books from the
school library, attempt to answer the following questions.
1. Define lattice energy
2. Explain how the lattice energy is used to describe high melting points of
ionic compounds.
3. What is the bonding force present in ionic compounds?
4. Why is the melting temperature of magnesium oxide higher than that of
magnesium chloride, even though both are almost 100% ionic?
5. How is lattice energy of ionic compounds related to their high melting
points?
It is a type of potential energy that may be defined in two ways. In one definition,
the lattice energy is the energy required to break apart an ionic solid and convert
its component ions into gaseous ions (Endothermic process). On the other hand
lattice energy is the energy released when gaseous ions bind to form an ionic solid
(Exothermic process). Its values are usually expressed with the units’ kJ/mol.
Lattice Energy is used to explain the stability of ionic solids. Some might expect
such an ordered structure to be less stable because the entropy of the system would
be low. However, the crystalline structure allows each ion to interact with multiple
oppositely charge ions, which causes a highly favourable change in the enthalpy of
the system. A lot of energy is released as the oppositely charged ions interact. It is this
that causes ionic solids to have such high melting and boiling points. Some require
such high temperatures that they decompose before they can reach a melting and/or boiling point.
There are two main factors that affect lattice enthalpy.
a) The charges on the ions
Sodium chloride and magnesium oxide have exactly the same arrangements of ionsin the crystal lattice, but the lattice enthalpies are very different.
From the above diagram the lattice enthalpy of magnesium oxide is much greater
than that of sodium chloride. This is because in magnesium oxide, +2 ions are
attracting -2 ions; in sodium chloride, the attraction is only between +1 and - 1ions.
b. The radius or the size (volume) of the ions
The lattice enthalpy of magnesium oxide is also increased relative to sodium chloride
because magnesium ions are smaller than sodium ions, and oxide ions are smaller
than chloride ions.
It means that the ions are closer together in the lattice, and that increases the
strength of the attractions.
For example, as you go down Group 17 of the Periodic Table from fluorine to iodine,
you would expect the lattice enthalpies of their sodium salts to fall as the negative
ions get bigger - and that is the case:3.3. Formation of metallic bonds and physical properties of
metals
The figure above shows materials commonly used at home. If you reflect back
around your house/home you will see hundreds of objects made from different
kinds of materials.
1. Observe the objects (in picture) and classify them according to the
materials they are made of.
2. Have you ever wondered why the manufacturers choose the material
they did for each item?
3. Why are frying saucepans made of metals and dishes, cups and plates
often made of glass and ceramic?
4. Could dishes be made of metal? And saucepans made of ceramic andglass
3.3.1. Formation of metallic bond
Another way of combining is the combination between metal atoms to form metallic
bond.
When metal atoms combine together, there is no transfer of electrons since the
combining atoms are of the same nature, i.e. all are metals and no one is ready to
give up or to capture electrons.
In metallic bonding, all metal atoms put together their valence electrons in a kind of
pool of electrons where positive metallic cations seem to bathe. This model is called
“Elecron Sea Model” (Fig. 3.13)
Metals have a sea of delocalized electrons within their structure. These electrons
have become detached and the remaining atoms have a positive charge. This
positive charged is attracted to the delocalized sea of electrons due to electrostatic
forces of attraction (forces which result from unlike charges), and as a result has a
strong interaction. It is this interaction which makes the metals so hard and rigid.Figures 3.13 and 3.14 are representations of metallic bond.
3.3.2. Physical properties of metals
Activity 3.7: Looking at metals
1. Collect a number of metal items from your home or school.
Some examples are listed below: hammer, electrical wiring, cooking pots, jewellery,
burglar bars and coins, nails,
2. What is the function of each of these objects?
3. Discuss why you think metal was used to make each object. You shouldconsider the properties of metals when you are answering this question
a. Electrical conductivity
Activity 3.8
Procedure
1. Take a dry cell/battery, a torch bulb/ bulb, connecting wires, crocodile clips
and connect them. As in the figure 3.17
2. Repeat the experiment above using different metals3. Record your results in a suitable table.
Study questions:
1. Compare the relative conductivity of the metals used in the above experiment.
2. Suggest the purpose of the resistor in the experimental set up.
Due to the mobile valence electrons of metals, electricity can pass through the
metals easily. So they are conductors of electricity. Silver and copper are the bestconductors of electricity
Note: mercury is a poor conductor of electricity.
Thermal conductivity
Procedure:
1. Pour boiling water into the two cups so that they are about half full.
2. At the same time, place a metal spoon into one cup and a plastic spoon in
the other.
3. Note which spoon heats up more quickly.
4. Record your observations.
Study questions:
1. Which one heats faster plastic spoon or metallic spoon and why?
2. Why do we use plastic cups?
3. Why are cooking pots made of metallic materials not plastics?
Results: The metal spoon heats up more quickly than the plastic spoon. In other words, the
metal conducts heat well, but the plastic does not.
Conclusion: Metals are good thermal conductors, while plastic is a poor thermal conductor.
The reason is due to the mobility of electrons with transfer of kinetic energy between
electrons. This explains why cooking pots are metallic, but their handles are often plastic or
wooden. The pot itself must be metal so that heat from the cooking surface can heat up the
pot to cook the food inside it, but the handle is made from a poor thermal conductor so thatthe heat does not burn the hand of the person who is cooking.
c. Malleability and ductility
Activity 3.10
Experiments to demonstrate the malleability and ductility of metals
Materials: wires, nails, hammer, piece of cloth.
Procedure:
1. Wrap the material to be test in a heavy plastic or cloth to avoid pieces flying
from the material.
2. Place the material on a flat hard surface
3. Use a harmer to pound the material flat
4. Record your observations as malleable or non-malleable.
Metals can have their shapes changed relatively easily in two different ways i.e.
Malleable: can be hammered into sheets or
Ductile: can be drawn into rods and wires
As the metal is beaten into another shape the delocalised electron cloud continuesto bind the “ions” together.
d) Metal appears shiny/lustrous
Activity 3.11
Demonstration of shininess in metals
Procedure:
1. Hold a small piece of sodium metal using forceps.
2. Place it on a hard surface and cut it into two parts
3. Observe the cut surface. What do you observe?
4. Look at the surface of aluminium sheets, how does it appear?
Study question:
Explain what makes metal surfaces appear shiny/luster.
Light is composed of very small packages of electromagnetic energy called photons.
We are able to see objects because light photons from the sun (or other light source)
reflect off of the atoms within the object and some of these reflected photons reach
the light sensors in our eyes and we can see the objects.
When photons of light hit the atoms within an object three things
can happen:
The photons can bounce back from the atoms in the object, can pass through an
object such as glass or can be stopped by the atoms within the object.
Objects that reflect many photons into our eyes make the objects appear shiny.
Objects that absorb photons and reflect less photons appear dull or even dark black
to our eyes.
Did you know? Of all of the metals, aluminium and silver are the shiniest to our
eyes. Gold is also one of the more shiny metals. However, gold is not as shiny as silver
and aluminium. Mercury, a liquid metal, is also shiny and special telescope mirrors
have been made of mercury.
(e)Melting and boiling points
Activity 3.12:
1. Why do metals have variable melting points?
2. Why do metals have high melting points compared to non-metals?
Melting point is a measure of how easy it is to separate individual particles. In metals
it is a measure of how strong the electron cloud holds the positive ions. The ease of
separation of ions depends on the electron density and Ionic / Atomic size.
3.3.3. Factors affecting the strength of metallic bonds.
Activity 3.13
1. Explain different strengths of metallic bonds in different metals?
2. Compare the metallic strength of the following metals:
(i) Sodium and magnesium
(ii) Sodium and potassium
The three main factors that affect the metallic bond are:
• Number of protons/ Strength of nuclear attraction: The more protons
the stronger the force of attraction between the positive ions and the
delocalized electrons
• Number of delocalized electrons per atom: The more delocalized electrons
the stronger the force of attraction between the positive ions and the
delocalized electrons
• Size of atom: The smaller the atom, the stronger the force of attraction
between the positive ions and the delocalized electrons and vice-versa, the
larger the atom, the weaker the force of attraction between the positive
ions and the delocalised electrons
The strength increases across a period from left to right because:
The atoms have more protons. There are more delocalized electrons per atom.
Electrons are added to the same energy level. Group1 elements have 1 electron
in their outer shells and so contribute 1 electron to the sea of electrons, Group 2
elements contribute 2 electrons per atom, and Group 3 elements contribute 3
electrons per atom
If the atoms/ions are smaller; there is therefore a greater force of attraction between
the positive ions and the delocalized electrons.
In group 1 elements, the melting and boiling points decrease as the size increases
hence attraction between the delocalized electrons and metal cations decreasesdown the group as shown table 3.6
Checking Up 3.6
1. Look at the table below, which shows the thermal conductivity of a number ofdifferent materials, and then answer the questions that follow:
The higher the number in the second column, the better the material is at
conducting heat (i.e. it is a good thermal conductor). Remember that a material
that conducts heat efficiently will also lose heat more quickly than an insulating
material. Use this information to answer the following questions:
1. Name two materials that are good thermal conductors.
2. Name two materials that are good insulators.
3. Explain why:
a. cooler boxes are often made of polystyrene
b. Homes that are made from wood need less internal heating during the
cold months.
c. Igloos (homes made from snow) are so good at maintaining warm
temperatures, even in freezing conditions.
d. Houses covered by iron sheets and houses covered by tiles can be
compared in their capacity of keeping the interior of the house hot of
fresh during a sunny and hot day.
4. Magnesium has a higher melting and boiling point than sodium. This can
be explained in terms of the electronic structures, the packing, and the
atomic radii of the two elements.
a. Explain why each of these three things causes the magnesium melting
and boiling points to be higher.
b. Explain why metals are good conductors of electricity.
c. Explain why metals are also good conductors of heat.
3. Pure metals are usually malleable and ductile.
a. Explain what those two words mean.
If a metal is subjected to a small stress, it will return to its original shape when
the stress is removed. However, when it is subjected to a larger stress, it may
change shape permanently. Explain, with the help of simple diagrams why
there is a different result depending on the size of the stress.
When a piece of metal is worked by a blacksmith, it is heated to a high
temperature in a furnace to make it easier to shape. After working it with a
hammer, it needs to be re-heated because it becomes too difficult to work.
Explain what is going on in terms of the structure of the metal.Why is brass harder than either of its component metals, copper and zinc?
3.4. End Unit Assessment
1. Choose from a list of words and fill in the missing words in the text below:
List of words:
Conduct electricity, electrodes, electrolysis, electrostatic attraction, free electrons,
good conductivity, great malleability, high density, high melting points,
ionic bond,metal, negative ion, non-metal, positive ion,regular crystal shape
and attractive forces.
Text:
Metals have a layered structure of ................... in fixed positions but between
them are oppositely charged ............... that can move around at random between
the metal atoms. There is a strong ...................................... between these oppositely
charged particles which gives them ..........................The strong forces also give
a ....................... making the average ........... heavier than an average ................ The
presence of ........................... in the structure keeps the bonding intact when metals
are bent or hammered giving them.......................................... Also, these ....................
give metals ..............as regards heat and electricity.
When electrons are transferred from (usually) ............ atom (e.g. sodium)
to................. atom (e.g. chlorine) an ionic bond is formed. Sodium loses an
electron to form a singly charged ........................... and chlorine gains an electron
to form a singly charged negative ion. In an ionic compound, the ionic bond
is the electrostatic attraction between the neighbouring positive ions andnegative ions.
The strong forces holding this giant ionic lattice together give
these ionic compounds............................ and...................................................................
When ionic compounds are melted they are found to ................ in a process
called ...........using electrical contacts called............ In this process, move
to the negative electrode (cathode) and metalsare released. At the same
time, ....................move to the positive electrode (anode) and ................ are formed.
Research from the internet or text books to find out other physical properties of
metals and ionic compounds that are not mentioned above.
Answer these questions by choosing the best alternative represented by letters from A, B, C and D.
1. Metals lose electrons from their lattice to become
a. positive ions
b. negative ions
c. alkalis
d. non- metals
2. Neither ions nor electrons are free to move in
a. liquids
b. metals
c. ionic solids
d. All of the above
3. Attractive forces between metal ions and delocalized
electrons can be weakened or overcome by
a. hammer
b. high temperature
c. water
d. All of the above
4. Metals are good conductors due to
a. ionic lattices
b. crystalline lumps
c. mostly solidsd. delocalized electrons
5. Most atoms adopt one of three simple strategies to achieve a
filled shell. Which of the following is NOT one of these strategies?
a. They accept electrons
b. They share electrons
c. They give away electrons
d. They keep their own electrons
6. Which of the following is NOT a type of chemical bond?
a. Covalent
b. Metallic
c. Valence
d. Ionic
7. In metallic bonding...
a . One atom takes the outer shell electrons from another atom.
b. A couple of atoms share their electrons with each other.
c. Some electrons are shared by all the atoms in the material.
d. Bonding takes place between positively charged areas of one atom with
a negatively charged area of another atom.
8. Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of metals?
A. Shiny /lustre
B. Brittle/Shatters easily
C. Conducts electricity
D. Malleable
9. When two or more metal elements are combined they form
an...
a. bronze
b. alloy
c. Covalent bond
d. Brass
10. Sulphur is a solid non-metallic element at room temperature, so it is?
a. A good conductor of heat
b. A substance with a low melting point
c. Easily bent into shape
d. A good conductor of electricity
11. Copper is a metallic element so it is likely to be a?
a. substance with a low boiling point
b. poor conductor of electricity
c. good conductor of heat
d. substance with a low melting point
12. Sodium chloride is a typical ionic compound formed by
combining a metal with a non-metal. Sodium chloride will?
a. have a low melting point
b. consist of small NaCl molecules
c. conduct electricity when dissolved in water
d. not conduct electricity when molten
13. Copper is a metallic element so it is likely to be a?
a. Substance with a shiny surface
b. Poor conductor of electricity
c. Poor conductor of heat
d. Substance with a low melting point
14. When an ionic bond is formed between atoms of different
elements?
a. Protons are transferred
b. Electrons are transferred
c. Protons are shared
d. Electrons are shared
15. Sodium chloride has a high melting point because it has:
a. Many ions strongly attracted together
b. Strong covalent double bonds
c. A giant covalent 3-dimentional structure
d. Molecules packed tightly together
16. Which substance is likely to have a giant ionic structure:
a. Melts at 1400o
C, insoluble in water, good conductor of electricity either when
solid or molten
b. Melts at 2800o
C, insoluble in water, non-conductor of electricity when
molten or solid
c. Melts at 17o
C, insoluble in water, non-conductor of electricity either when
solid or molten
d. Melts at 2600o
C, dissolves in water, non-conductor of electricity when
solid,undergoes electrolysis in aqueous solution
17. Sodium chloride conducts electricity when:
a. Solid or molten
b. Solid or in solution
c. Molten or in solution
d. Non of the above
18. The structure of magnesium oxide is a
a. Giant covalent lattice
b. Giant ionic lattice
c. Simple ionic lattice
d. All the above
19. What is the formula for magnesium chloride (contains Mg2+ and Cl?
ions)?
a. MgCl
b. Mg22Cl
c. MgCl2
d. MgCl
20. Why does sodium chloride have a lower melting point than magnesium
chloride?
a. Its positive ions are smaller and have a smaller charge
b. Its positive ions are larger but have a smaller charge
c. Its positive ions are smaller but have a larger charge
d. All the above21. Explain the conductivity of sodium chloride
a. It conducts electricity when molten because it contains free electrons
b. It conducts electricity when molten because sodium has metallic
bonding
c. It conducts electricity when molten because its ions are free to move.
d. None of the above
Short and long answer questions
22.(a) Explain why the lattice dissociation enthalpy of NaBr is a bit less than
that of NaCl.
(b) Explain why the lattice dissociation enthalpy of MgO is about 5 times
greater than that of
NaCl
23.a) The table (using figures for lattice energies from gives experimental and
theoretical values for the silver halides.(The values are listed as lattice dissociationenergies.) compare the values and give a detailed explanation.
UNIT 4:COVALENT BOND AND MOLECULAR STRUCTURE
UNIT 4: COVALENT BOND AND MOLECULAR
STRUCTURE
Key Unit Competence
Demonstrate how the nature of the bonding is related to the properties of covalent
compounds and molecular structures.
Learning objectives
By the end of this unit, students should be able to:
• Define octet rule as applied to covalent compounds.
• Explain the formation of covalent bonds and
the properties of
covalent compounds.
• Describe how the properties of covalent compounds depend on their
bonding.
• Explain the rules of writing proper Lewis structures
• Draw different Lewis structures
• State the difference between Lewis structures from other structures.
• Apply octet rule to draw Lewis structures of different compounds.
• Make the structures of molecules using models.
• Write the structures of some compounds that do not obey octet rule.
• Explain the formation of dative covalent bonds in different molecules.
• Compare the formation of dative covalent to normal covalent bonding.
• Describe the concept of valence bond theory.
• Relate the shapes of molecules to the type of hybridization.
• Differentiate sigma from pi bonds in terms of orbital overlap and formation.
• Explain the VSEPR theory.
• Apply the VSEPR theory to predict the shapes of different molecules/ions.
• Predict whether the bonding between specified elements will be primarily
covalent or ionic.
• Relate the structure of simple and giant molecular covalent compounds to
their properties.
• Describe simple and giant covalent molecular structures.
• Describe the origin of inter-molecular forces.
• Describe the effect of inter and intra molecular forces on the physical
properties of certain molecules.
• Describe the effect of hydrogen bonding in the biological molecules.
• Relate the physical properties to type of inter and intra molecular forces in
molecules.• Compare inter and intra molecular forces of attraction in different molecules.
In UNIT 3, you have learnt that atoms have different ways of combination to achieve
the stable octet electronic structure; two of those ways of combination led to
the formation of ionic bond and metallic bond. But what happens where the two
combining atoms need electrons to complete the octet structure and no one is
willing to donate electrons? For example the combination of 2 hydrogen atoms or
the combination of 2 chlorine atoms?
When this happens, the combining atoms share a pair of electrons where each
atom brings or contributes one electron. In other words there is an overlapping of
two orbitals, one orbital from one atom, each orbital containing one electron (see
Fig.4.1): this bond is called “Covalent bond”. The attraction between the bonding
pair of electrons and the two nuclei holds the two atoms together.
The covalent bond is a bond formed when atoms share a pair of electrons to complete
the octet. Similarly, people need each other irrespective of their race, economic,
political and social status for the success of human race. Some compounds that
exist in nature such as hemoglobin in our blood, chlorophyll in plants, paracetamol,
responsible for transport of oxygen, green color in plants and as pain killer respectively
are made of the covalent bond. The covalent bonds mostly occur between nonmetals or between two of the same (or similar) elements.Two atoms with similar
electronegativity do not exchange an electron from their outermost shell; the atoms
instead share electrons so that their valence electron shell is filled.
In general, covalent bonding occurs when atoms share electrons (Lewis model),
concentrating electron density between nuclei. The build-up of electron density
between two nuclei occurs when a valence atomic orbital of one atom combines
with that of another atom (Valence bond theory).In Valence bond theory, the bonds
are considered to form from the overlap of two atomic orbitals on different atoms,
each orbital containing a single electron.
The orbitals share a region of space, i.e. they overlap. The overlap of orbitals allows
two electrons of opposite spin to share the common space between the nuclei,forming a covalent bond.
These two electrons are attracted to the positive charge of both the hydrogen
nuclei, with the result that they serve as a sort of ‘chemical glue’ holding the two
nuclei together.
The figure (Figure 4.1) shows the distance between the two nuclei. If the two nuclei
are far apart, their respective 1s-orbitals cannot overlap and no covalent bond is
formed. As they move closer each other, the orbital overlapping begins to occur, and
a bond starts to form.
The examples below represent different atoms overlapping in order to form covalentbonds.
4.1.1 Properties of covalent molecules
Covalent molecules are chemical compounds in which atoms are all bonded together
through covalent bonds. The covalent compounds possess different properties and
some are emphasized below.
• Covalent compounds exist as individual molecules, held together by weak
van der Waals forces.
• Due to the weak van der Waals forces that hold molecules together, covalent
compounds have low melting and boiling points; because the weak forces
between molecules can be broken easily to separate the molecules. That
is why covalent compounds can be solid, liquid and gaseous at room
temperature.
• Covalent compounds do not display the electrical conductivity either in
pure form or when dissolved in water. This can be explained by the fact
that the covalent compounds do not dissociate into ions when dissolves in
water.
• Generally non-polar covalent compounds do not dissolve in water; but
many polar covalent compounds are soluble in water( a polar solvent)
• Non-polar covalent compounds are soluble in organic solvents (themselves
non-polar covalent).
The two statements above are at the origin of the say by chemists: “Like dissolveslike”
bonding is usually placed at the center. The number of bonding sites is determined
by considering the number of valence electrons and the ability of an atom to expand
its octet. As you will progress in your study of chemistry, you will be able to recognisethat certain groups of atoms prefer to bond together in a certain way!
electrons in the molecule or ion. In the case of a neutral molecule, this is nothing
more than the sum of the valence electrons on each atom. If the molecule carries
an electric charge, we add one electron for each negative charge or subtract an
electron for each positive charge.
In Lewis structure, the least electronegative element is usually the central element,
except H that is never the central element, because it forms only one bond.
Another way of finding Lewis structure
1. Calculate n (the number of valence (outer) shell electrons needed by all atoms in
the molecule or ion to achieve noble gas configurations for instance,
NO3
-
, n=1× 8(for N atom) + 3×8 (for O atom) = 32 electrons.
2. Calculate A, number of electrons available in the valence (outer) shells of all the
atoms. For negatively charged ions, add to this number the number of electrons
equal to the charge of the anions. For cations you subtract the number of electrons
equal to the charge on the cation.
For instance: NO3
-
,
A= 1×5(for N) +3×6 (for O atom) +1(for -1 charge) = 5+18+1=24 electrons.
3. Calculate S, total number of electrons shared in the molecule or ion, using the
relationship
S = n-A
S= n-A= 32-24 =8 electrons shared (4pairs of electron shared)
4. Place S electrons into the skeleton as shared pairs. Use double and triple bonds
only when necessary. Lewis formulas may be shown as either dot formula or dashformulas.
There are three general ways in which the octet rule doesn’t work:
• Molecules with an odd number of electrons
• Molecules in which an atom has less than an octet
• Molecules in which an atom has more than an octet
a. Odd number of electrons
Consider the example of the Lewis structure for the molecule nitrous oxide (NO):
Total electrons: 6+5=11
Bonding structure:
Octet on “outer” element is realized and on central atom only 3 electrons remain free(11-8 = 3).
4.3 Coordinate or dative covalent bonding and properties
4.3.1. Co-ordinate or dative covalent bonding and properties
A dative covalent bond, or coordinate bond is another type of covalent bonding. In this
case, the shared electron pair(s) are completely provided by one of the participants
in the union, and not by contributions from the two of them. The contributors of the
shared electrons are either neutral molecules which contain lone pair(s) of electrons
on one of their atoms, or negatively charged groups with free pairs of electrons todonate for sharing
The solid copper (II) hydroxide which was initially formed reacts with the excess
ammonia (which acts as ligands) to form the water soluble tetra ammine copper (II)complex as shown below.
4.4 Valence bond theory (VBT)
As you notice, the density of bonding electrons is not on the inter-nuclei axis, it is
rather located outside the axis but surrounding it. This kind of covalent bond is called
“ Pi bond”, represented by the symbol “π”. Hence the double bond O=O is made of
two covelent bonds: a σ bond and a π bond.
Due to the position of their electrons density in relation with the two nuclei, σ bond
participates in maintaining the two nuclei together more strongly than the π bond;
that is why σ bond is stronger than π bond. In addition, π bond cannot exist alone, it
exists only where there is a double or triple bond. Hence, in a double or triple bond,
there is one σ bond and one or two π bonds respectively.
Checking Up 4.4
1. Describe the aspects and postulates of valence bond theory(VBT)
2. Use VBT to explain the formation of single(sigma) and double (pi)bonds
(a) Explanation of lateral overlap of atomic orbitals and(b) Explanation of head-to-head overlap of atomic orbitals
4.5 Valence Shell Electron Pair Repulsion Theory (VSEPR)
theory
nucleus. Hence they occupy more space. As a result, the lone pairs cause more
repulsion.
The order of repulsion between different types of electron pairs is as follows:
Lone pair - Lone pair > Lone Pair - Bond pair > Bond pair - Bond pair
The bond pairs are usually represented by a solid line, whereas the lone pairs are
represented by a lobe with two electrons.
3) In VSEPR theory, the multiple bonds are treated as if they were single bonds.
The electron pairs in multiple bonds are treated collectively as a single super pair.
The repulsion caused by bonds increases with increase in the number of
bonded pairs between two atoms i.e., a triple bond causes more repulsion
than a double bond which in turn causes more repulsion than a single bond.
4) The shape of a molecule can be predicted from the number and type ofvalence shell electron pairs around the central atom.
The principle of the VSEPR is based on the idea that: the most stable structure of a
molecule is the one where the electron pairs are far away one from another in
order to minimize the repulsions between the pairs of electrons surrounding
the central atom.
The VSEPR theory assumes that each atom in a molecule will achieve a geometry
that minimizes the repulsion between electrons in the valence shell of that atom.
The use of VSEPR involves the following steps:
• Draw a Lewis structure for the ion or molecule in question.
• The shape is based on the location of the nuclei in a molecule, so double
and triple bonds count as one shared pair when determining the shape of
the molecule
• Locate the shared pairs and lone pairs on the central atom• Determine the shape based on the above considerations.
4.6. Hybridisation and types of Hybridisation
Activity 4.6
1. Write the electronic configuration of carbon and hydrogen using s,p, d.. Notation.
2. Use the electronic configurations above to identify the orbitals that contain
electrons used during the formation of methane.
3. Use the knowledge of overlap of atomic orbitals to indicate how orbitals overlap
in formation of hydrogen chloride, methane and beryllium chloride and predictthe shapes of the molecules.
4.7 Polar covalent bonds
Activity 4.7
1. Can you define the term electronegativity?
2. How is electronegativity related to polarity of the compound?
3. How does the polarity of a given molecule affect its physical properties?
4. Can you describe the general trends of electronegativity across and down
the groups in the periodic table?
5. What is meant by the term dipole and Net dipole
What happens if shairing of the bonding pair of electrons between the two atoms
forming the bond is not equal? For instance when two different non-metal elements
such as hydrogen and bromine combine?
In this case, there is unequal sharing where the more electronegative element takes
a bigger share of the bonding pair of electrons (Fig. 4.7
Figure 4.7: Polar covalent bond
(www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/higher/chemistry/energy/bsp/revision/1/
In a polar covalent bond, binding pair of electrons is unequally shared between two
atoms. The power of an atom to attract the pair of electrons that constitutes the
bond in a molecule is called “electronegativity”.
The ‘electronegativity’ can be used to determine whether a given bond is nonpolar covalent, polar covalent or ionic bond. The electronegativity increases from left
to right across a period and decreases as you go down a group
The larger the electronegativity, the greater is the strength to attract a bonding pair
of electrons; and the larger the difference in electronegativites of the atoms, themore polar the covalent bond between the two atoms.
The following is the general thumb rule for predicting the type of bond based
upon the electronegativity differences:
• If the electronegativities are equal and the difference in electronegativity
difference is less than 0.5, the bond is non-polar covalent.
• If the difference in electronegativities between the two atoms is greater
than 0.4, but less than 2.0, the bond is polar covalent.
• If the difference in electronegativities between the two atoms is 2.0, or
greater, the bond is ionic
(ii) Poor electrical conductivity
There are no charged particles (ions or electrons) delocalized throughout the
molecular crystal lattice to conduct electricity. They cannot conduct electricity in
either the solid or molten state.
(iii) Solubility
Simple structures tend to be quite insoluble in water, but this depends on how the
polarized molecule is. The more polar the molecules, the more water molecules will
be attracted to them (some may dissolve in water as a result of forming hydrogen
bonds within it). Molecular crystals tend to dissolve in non-polar solvents such as
alcohol.
(iv) Soft and low density
Van der Waals forces are weak and non-directional. The lattice is readily destroyed
and the crystals are soft and have low density.
b. Giant covalent structures and their physical properties
Sometimes covalently bonded structures can form giant networks, known as Giant
Covalent Structures. In these structures, each network of bonds connects all the
atoms to each other.
These structures are usually very hard and have high melting and boiling points.
This is because of the strong covalent bonds holding each atom in place. In general,
Giant Covalent Structures cannot conduct electricity due to the fact that there are no
free charge carriers. One notable exception is Graphite. This is a structure composed
of ‘sheets’ of carbon atoms on top of each other. Electrons can move between the
sheets and carry the electricity. The main giant covalent molecular structures are the
two allotropes of carbon (diamond and graphite), and silica (silicon dioxide).
(i) Diamond structure and the physical properties
Diamond is a form of carbon in which each carbon atom is joined to four other
carbon atoms, forming a giant covalent structure with four single bonds. As a result,
diamond is very hard and has a high melting point. It does not conduct electricity.
Diamond is tetrahedral face-centered cubic as shown in the figure below
Diamond has a very high melting point (almost 4000°C): the carbon-carbon covalent
bonds are very strong and have to be broken throughout the structure before
melting occurs.
The compound is very hard due to the necessity to break very strong covalent bonds
operating in 3-dimensions.
Diamond does not conduct electricity: All the electrons are held tightly between the
atoms, and are not able to move freely.
The compound is insoluble in water and other organic solvents due to no possible
attractions which could occur between solvent molecules and carbon atoms which
could outweigh the attractions between the covalently bound carbon atoms.
(ii) Graphite and the physical properties
Graphite is another form of carbon in which the carbon atoms form layers. These
layers can slide over each other and graphite is much softer than diamond. Each
carbon atom in a layer is joined to only three other carbon atoms in hexagonal ringsas shown in the figure below
Silicon dioxide exhibits some physical properties such as:
• It has a high melting point (around 1700°C) which varies depending on
what the particular structure is (remember that the structure given is only
one of three possible structures).The silicon-oxygen covalent bonds are
very strong and have to be broken throughout the structure before the
melting occurs
• Silicon dioxide is hard due to the need to break the very strong covalent
bonds.
• Silicon dioxide is not displaying the property of electrical conductivity
because all the electrons are held tightly between the atoms, and are not
able to move freely. No any delocalized electrons are observed.
• It is insoluble in water and organic solvents because no possible attractions
occur between solvent molecules and the silicon or oxygen atoms which
could overcome the covalent bonds in the giant structure
4.
a) Draw a diagram to show the structure of silicon dioxide.
b) Explain why silicon dioxide
(i) is hard;
(ii) has a high melting point;
(iii) Doesn’t conduct electricity;(iv) is insoluble in water and other solvents.
4.9. Intermolecular Forces
Activity 4.9
1. Make a research and describe why:
i) Ice floats over water and the bottle full of water breaks on cooling(freezing)
ii) Water is a liquid at room temperature while Hydrogen sulfide is a gas
2. Trichloromethane (ii) ethanol (iii) aluminium fluoride. Arrange these compounds
in order of increasing boiling points.
Intermolecular forces are electrostatic forces which may arise from the interaction
between partial positively and negatively charged particles. Intermolecular forces
exist between two molecules while intramolecular forces hold atoms of a molecule
together in a molecule (Figure 4.11).
Intermolecular forces are much weaker than the intramolecular forces of attraction
but are important because they determine the physical properties of molecules
such as their boiling point, melting point, density, and enthalpies of fusion andvaporization.
Intramolecular forces hold the atoms in the molecule together; they are called
chemical bonds. Intermolecular forces hold covalent molecules together and are
responsible of a certain number of properties of the substance such as the melting
and boiling temperatures of covalent substances. They can be grouped in a category
of forces called van der Waals forces. There are three main kinds of intermolecular
interactions such as London dispersion forces, dipole-dipole interactions andhydrogen bonding later in the unit
dispersion forces than chlorine, contributing to increasing the boiling point of
bromine, 59 o
C, compared to chlorine, –35o
C. Those London forces are very weak
for non-polar covalent compounds; hence breaking them does not require much
energy, which explains why non-polar covalent compounds such as methane and
nitrogen which only have London dispersion forces of attraction between themolecules have very low melting and boiling points.
4.9.3. Hydrogen bond
For a hydrogen bond to be possible, there are necessary conditions:• The first condition is that the molecule contains one group where hydrogen is
Hydrogen bonds in DNA
(https://www.easynotescards.com/notecard_set/59549)
Hydrogen bonding in ice
Each water molecule is hydrogen-bonded to 4 others in a tetrahedral formation. The
ice molecule has a “diamond-like” structure. When liquid water freezes, the hydrogen
bonds become more rigid, and the volume becomes larger than the liquid because
of empty space generated by the rigidity of solid water. This explains why ice floatsover liquid water because its density is lower than the density of liquid water
4.10. End unit assessment
PART 1: MULTIPLE CHOICE QUESTIONS
1. In the periodic table, electronegativity generally decreases: A From right to left
in a period, B Upwards in a group; C From left to right in a period.
2. Which structure would sulphur, S8
, have?
A simple covalent molecules B simple covalent lattice C giant covalent lattice D
giant ionic lattice
3. Which statement(s) is/are true?
1) Water has hydrogen bonds which increase the boiling point.
2) Water as a solid is denser than as a liquid.
3) Water has bond angles of 180o
.
A 1, 2 and 3
B 1 and 2
C 2 and 3D only 1
a) The geometry of a molecule is determined by the number of electron groups
on the central atom.
b) The geometry of the electron groups is determined by minimizing repulsions
between them.
c) A lone pair, a single bond, a double bond, a triple bond and a single electron -
each of these is counted as a single electron group.
d) Bond angles may depart from the idealized angles because lone pairs of
electrons take up less space than bond pairs.
e) The number of electron groups can be determined from the Lewis structure ofthe molecule
PART 2: Filling in questions
16. Use the words listed below to fill in the correct appropriate word(s) in the
spaces below in the text.
Bigger, covalent bond, diamond, free electrons, halogens, hard crystals,
high electrical conductivity, high melting points, increase, intermolecular
forces, low electrical conductivity, low melting points, non-metals,
sharing, soft crystals, strong, strong bond, weak, weak force.
A ………………… is formed by two atoms…………….. one or more pairs of
electrons to make a …………………..between the two atoms in a molecule.
However, between small molecules, only a ………………holds them
together in the bulk liquid or solid. This results in small covalent molecules
having ……………………… and ………………………………..if solid. Small
covalent molecules have no …………………. and so have a
……………………………………
The Group 7 ………………………. collectively known as the…………………..
form diatomic molecules of two atoms. The …………………………..between
the molecules are ……………. giving them relatively low melting points and
boiling points. This also explains why they are gases, liquids or solids with
……………………. As you go down Group 7 the melting boiling points and
boiling points …………………..because the molecules get ………….. and the
intermolecular forces ………………….
In giant covalent structures the forces between all the atoms are
……………..forming ………………… like diamond or silica . In the
atomic giant structure metals there are free electrons which allow
…………………………………………….
PART3:
17. Fill in the table by putting a check mark in the compare-and-contrast matrixunder the column(s) that each physical attribute describes.
a) A 3-D, repeating pattern of + and – ions, formed by ionic compound
b)Tendency for an atom to attract the bonding pair electrons when chemically
bonded to another atom
c) A sharing of a pair of electrons
d) Atoms will gain or lose enough electrons in order to become isoelectronic with
a noble gas
d) A transfer of electrons from one atom to another
e) A chemical formula that is arranged in the smallest whole number ratio
f) The term that means dissolved in water
g) A chemical formula that describes the makeup of a single molecule
h) The shape (geometry) that is an exception to the octet rule
i) A bond where electrons are shared unequally between atoms
j) One of the shapes (geometries) that is polar
k) A bond where electrons are shared equally between atomsAcross
11. A covalent bond between atoms in which the electrons are shared unequally
12. A covalent bond in which the electrons are shared equally by the two atoms
14. Intermolecular forces resulting from the attraction of oppositely charged
regions of polar molecules
15. A bond formed when two atoms share a pair of electrons
16. The two weakest intermolecular attractions - dispersion interactions and
dipole forces
18. A covalent bond in which one atom contributes both bonding electrons
20. A chemical formula that shows the arrangement of atoms in a molecule or
polyatomic ion
21. A covalent bond in which three pairs of electrons are shared by two atoms
22. A bond in which two atoms share two pairs of electrons
23. A compound that is composed of molecules
26. A molecule consisting of two atoms
28. One of the two or more equally valid electron dot structures of a molecule or
polyatomic ion
31. valence-shell electron-pair repulsion theory; because electron pairs repel,
molecules adjust their shapes so that valence electron pairs are as far apart as
possible
Down
1. An orbital that applies to the entire molecule
2. A bond angle of 109.5 degrees that results when a central atom forms four
bonds directed toward the center of a regular tetrahedron
3. The mixing of several atomic orbitals to form the same total number of
equivalent hybrid orbitals
4. A tightly bound group of atoms that behaves as a unit and has a positive or
negative charge
5. A pair of valence electrons that is not shared between atoms
6. A molecule in which one side of the molecule is slightly negative and the
opposite side is slightly positive.
7.a covalent bond in which the bonding electrons are most likely to be found in
sausage-shaped regions above and below the bond axis of the bonded atoms
8. A covalent bond between atoms in which the electrons are shared unequally
9. A neutral group of atoms joined together by covalent bonds
10. A molecule that has two poles, or regions, with opposite charges
12. The energy required to break the bond between two covalently bonded atoms
17. A chemical formula of a molecular compound that shows the kinds and
numbers of atoms present in a molecule of a compound
19. Attractions between molecules caused by the electron motion on one
molecule affecting the electron motion on the other through electrical forces
24. Attractive forces in which hydrogen covalently bonded to a very electronegative
atom is also weakly bonded to an unshared electron pair of another electronegative
atom
25. A solid in which all of the atoms are covalently bonded to each other
27. A molecular orbital that can be occupied by two electrons of a covalent bond
29. A bond formed by the sharing of electrons between atoms
30. A bond formed when two atomic orbitals combine and form a molecular
orbital
that is symmetrical around the axis connecting the two atomic nuclei
UNIT 5:VARIATION IN TRENDS OF THE PHYSICAL PROPERTIES
UNIT 5: VARIATION IN TRENDS OF THE PHYSICAL
PROPERTIES
Key unit competence
Use atomic structure and electronic configuration to explain the trends in the
physical properties of elements.
Learning objectives
By the end of this unit, students should be able to:
• Outline the historical back ground of the Periodic Table.
• Explain the trends in the physical properties of the elements across a period
and down a group.
• Classify the elements into respective groups and periods using electronic
configuration.
• Relate trends in physical properties of the elements to their electronic
configuration.• Classify the elements into blocks (s, p, d, f-block).
Introductory activity
1. Explain how elements can be classified into a periodic table?
2. Explain on which basis elements can be classified?
3. How many groups and periods comprises a modern periodic table?
4. How does electronic configuration of elements influence the structureof
modern periodic table?
5. Discuss the basis of the location of the elements in the periodic table.
5.1. Historical Background of the Periodic Table
Activity 5.1
Who is the father of the periodic table? Explain your answers.
Differentiate the laws of triads and octaves
During the nineteenth century, many scientists contributed to the development of
the periodic table. In the beginning, a necessary prerequisite to the construction of
the periodic table was the discovery of the individual elements. Although elements
such as gold, silver, tin, copper, lead and mercury have been known since antiquity,
the first scientific discovery of an element occurred in 1649 when Hennig Brand
discovered phosphorous. The periodic table of elements is a chart created in order
to help to organize the elements that had been discovered at that time. By 1869,
a total of 63 elements had been discovered. As the number of known elements
grew, scientists began to recognize patterns in properties and began to develop
classification schemes.
Some important dates help us to understand more about how the periodic table has
been created.
• In 1669, Hennig Brand a German merchant and amateur alchemist invented
the Philosopher’s Stone; an object that supposedly could turn metals into
pure gold. He heated residues from boiled urine, and a liquid dropped out
and burst into flames. He also discovered phosphorus.
• In 1680 Robert Boyle also discovered phosphorus without knowing about
Henning Brand’ discovery.
• In 1809, curiously 47 elements were discovered and named, and scientists
began to design their atomic structures based on their characteristics.
• In 1869, Dimitri Mendeleev based on John Newlands’ ideas started
the development of elements organized into the periodic table. The
arrangement of chemical elements were done by using atomic mass as the
key characteristic to decide where each element belonged in his table. The
elements were arranged in rows and columns. He predicted the discovery
of other elements, and left spaces open in his periodic table for them. At the
same time, Lothar Meyer published his own periodic table with elements
organized by increasing atomic mass.
• In 1886, French physicist Antoine Becquerel first discovered radioactivity.
During the same period of 1886, Ernest Rutherford named three types of
radiation; alpha, beta and gamma rays.
• In 1886, Marie and Pierre Curie started working on the radioactivity and
they discovered radium and polonium. They discovered that beta particles
were negatively charged.
• In 1895, Lord Rayleigh discovered a new gaseous element named argon
which proved to be chemically inert. This element did not fit any of the
known periodic groups.
• In 1898, William Ramsay suggested that argon be placed into the periodic
table between chlorine and potassium in a family with helium, despite the
fact that argon’s atomic weight was greater than that of potassium. This
group was termed the “zero” group due to the zero valency of the elements.
Ramsey accurately predicted the future discovery and properties neon.
• In 1913, Henry Moseley worked on X-rays and determined the actual
nuclear charge (atomic number) of the elements. He has rearranged the
elements in order of increasing atomic number
• In 1897 English physicist J. J. Thomson discovered small negatively charged
particles in an atom and named them as electrons;John Sealy Townsend
and Robert A. Millikan investigated the electrons and determined their
exact charge and mass.
• In 1900, Antoine Becquerel discovered that electrons and beta particles
as identified by the Curies are the same thing.
• In 1903, Ernest Rutherford proclaimed that radioactivity is initiated by
the atoms which are broken down.
• In 1911, Ernest Rutherford and Hans Geiger discovered that electrons are
moving around the nucleus of an atom.
• In 1913, Niels Bohr suggested that electrons move around a nucleus in
discreete energy levels called orbits. He observed also that light is emitted
or absorbed when electrons transit from one orbit to another.
• In 1914, Rutherford identified protons in the atomic nucleus. He also
transformed a nitrogen atom into an oxygen atom for the first time.
English physicist Henry Moseley provided atomic numbers, based on the
number of electrons in an atom, rather than based on atomic mass.
• In 1932 James Chadwick discovered neutrons, and isotopes were
identified. This was the complete basis for the periodic table. In that same
year Englishman Cockroft and the Irishman Walton first split an atom by
bombarding lithium in a particle accelerator, changing it to two helium
nuclei.The last major changes to the periodic table give rise from Glenn
Seaborg’s work in the middle of the 20th Century. In 1940, he discovered
plutonium and all the transuranic elements from 94 to 102.
• In 1944, Glenn T. Seaborg discovered 10 new elements and moved out 14
elements of the main body of the periodic table to their current location
below the lanthanide series. These elements were known as Actinides series.
• In 1951, Seaborg was awarded the Nobel Prize in chemistry for his work.
Element 106 has been named seaborgium (Sg) in his honor.• Presently, 118 elements are in the modern Periodic Table.
5.1.1. Law of Triads
In 1817 Johann Dobereiner noticed that the atomic weight of strontium fell midway
between the weights of calcium and barium, elements possessing similar chemical
properties.
In 1829, after discovering the halogen triad (three) composed of chlorine, bromine,
and iodine and the alkali metal triad of lithium, sodium and potassium he proposed
that nature contained triads of elements the middle element had properties that
were an average of the other two members when ordered by the atomic weight (the
Law of Triads).
Between 1829 and 1858 a number of scientists (Jean Baptiste Dumas, Leopold
Gmelin, Ernst Lenssen, Max von Pettenkofer, and J.P. Cooke) found that these types
of chemical relationships extended beyond the triad. During this time fluorine was
added to the halogen group; oxygen, sulfur, selenium and tellurium were grouped
into a family while nitrogen, phosphorus, arsenic, antimony, and bismuth were
classified as another. Unfortunately, research in this area was hindered by the fact
that accurate values were not always available.
5.1.2. Law of Octaves
In 1863, John Newlands, an English chemist suggested that elements be arranged in
“octaves”. He wrote a paper in which he classified the 56 established elements into
11 groups based on similar physical properties, noting that many pairs of similar
elements existed which differed by some multiple of eight in atomic weight. This
law stated that any given element will exhibit analogous behavior to the eighth
element following it in the table. However, his law of octaves failed beyond the
element calcium.
Although Dimitri Mendeleev is often considered the “father” of the periodic
table, however the work of many scientists contributed to its present form. The
representation of a modern Periodic Table of Elements is shown below.
Checking up 5.1
The periodic table is an important tool used in chemistry:
1.Explain why the elements are classified in groups and periods of the periodic
table
2. Chose one element of Group 1 and one of group 17 and make their electronic
configurations using orbitals.
5.2. Comparison of Mendeleev’s Table and Modern Periodic
Table
Activity 5.2
1. Discuss the similarities and differences of Mendeleev’s table and modern
periodic Table.
2. How were the positions of cobalt and nickel resolved in the modern periodic
table?
The periodic table is the arrangement of chemical elements according to their
chemical and physical properties. The modern periodic table was created after
a series of different versions of the periodic table. The Russian Chemist/Professor
Dmitri Mendeleev was the first to come up with a structure for the periodic table with
columns and rows. This feature is the main building block for the modern periodic
table as well. The columns in the periodic table are called groups, and they group
together elements with similar properties. The rows in the periodic table are called
periods, and they represent sets of elements that get repeated due the possession of
similar properties. The main difference between Mendeleev and Modern PeriodicTable are shown in the Table below (Table 5.1).
Table 5.1. Differences between Mendeleev’s table and the modern Periodic
Table
Checking up 5.2
1. The periodic table is an arrangement of elements based on their properties.
Explain the gaps found in the Mendeleev periodic table compared to the modern
one?
2. How many elements does the modern periodic table contain?
3. Look at the modern periodic table and write down four things it tells you.
5.3. Location of Elements in the Periodic Table Based On the
Electronic Configuration
Activity 5.3
1. Based on knowledge gained in the previous years:
a. Represent the electronic configuration of the elements 25X and 11Y.
b. Discuss the information given by the number of electrons in the last orbitals
of the above element about their position in the periodic table?
c. Explain the period and the group of the periodic table in which the above
elements are located.
2. Is it possible to have an element with atomic number 1.5 between hydrogen
and helium?
5.3.1. Major Divisions of the Periodic Table
The periodic table is a tabular of the chemical elements organized on the basis of
their atomic numbers, electron configurations, and chemical properties.
In the periodic table, the elements are organized by periods and groups. The period
relates to the principal energy level which is being filled by electrons. Elements
with the same number of valence electrons are put in the same group, such as the
halogens and the noble gases. The chemical properties of an atom relate directly to
the number of valence electrons, and the periodic table is a road map among those
properties such that chemical properties can be deduced by the position of an
element on the table. The electrons in the outermost or valence shell are especially
important because they participate in forming chemical bonds.
Elements are presented in increasing atomic number. The main body of the table is
a 18 × 7 grid. There are four distinct rectangular areas or blocks such as s, p, d and
f blocks. The f-block is usually not included in the main table, but rather is floated
below, as an inline f-block would often make the table impractically wide. Using
periodic trends, the periodic table can help predict the properties of various elements
and the relations between properties. It therefore provides a useful framework for
analyzing chemical behavior and is widely used in chemistry and other sciences
(Petrucci et al., 2007).
5.3.2. Location of elements in modern Periodic Table using examplesIn the periodic table, the elements are located based on groups and periods.
receives the last electrons. The s-block has two groups of reactive metals: Group 1
and 2.
p-block is composed of metals and nonmetals of Group 13 to 18.
d-block is made of transition metals:Group 3 to Group 12, and f-block is made of
lanthanide and actinide series or inner transition metals.
The division of elements into blocks is primarily based upon their electronic
configuration as shown in Figure 5.1. Two exceptions to this categorization can
be mentioned. Helium is placed in p-block although its valence electrons are in s
orbital because it has a completely filled valence shell (1s2
) and as a result, displays
properties representative of other noble gases. The other exception is hydrogen. It
has only one s-electron and hence can be placed in group 1 (alkali metals); but in
many modern Periodic Tables, hydrogen is left hanging above the Periodic Table and
doesn’t belong to any group. This is due to the particular properties of hydrogen:
• Hydrogen is the smallest chemical element
• Hydrogen is a gas while the other elements of group 1 are solids,
• Hydrogen is not a metal whereas the other elements of group1 are metals,
• In some compounds where hydrogen combine with non-metals, it behaves
like a metal, e.g. in the polar molecule Hδ+Clδ-, hydrogen tends to lose an
electron,
• When combined with very active metals, it behaves as a non-metal and
forms a negative ion H-
, hydride ion; e.g. Na+H-
(sodium hydride).
Elements within the same group have the same number of electrons in their
valence (outermost) shells, and they have similar valence electron configurations.
They exhibit similar chemical properties. Elements within the same period have
different numbers of electrons in their valence shells and the number of electrons is
increasing from left to right. Therefore, elements in the same period are chemically
different, changing from metals to non-metals across the period from left to right.
1. Among the common blocks, s, p, and d; which block has a tendency to form
complex compounds?
2. Why d-block are called transition elements?
3. Why f-block are called inner transition elements?
5.6. Variation of Physical Properties down the Groups and
across the Periods
Activity 5.6
1. The elements in the periodic table display many trends which can be used to
predict their physical properties. Explain three of the factors that you think can
influence the physical properties of elements in the periodic table.
2. Discuss the trends of the above factors across a period and down a group in the
periodic table.
The elements in the periodic table are arranged in order of increasing atomic number.
All of these elements display several other trends and we can use the periodic table
to predict their physical properties. There are many noticeable patterns in the
physical and chemical properties of elements as we descend in a group or move
across a period in the Periodic Table.
Those trends can be observed in: ionization energy, electronegativity, electropositivity,
electron affinity, melting and boiling point, density and metallic character and hereafter
are some factors which cause those trends.
5.6.1. Atomic radius
The atomic radius of an atom is defined as half the distance between the nuclei of
two atoms of the same element that are joined together by a single covalent bond.
Atomic radius of elements decreases as we move from left to right in periodic table.
This is explained by the number of outer electrons and protons which increase while
there is no change in the energy level. The results increase the attracting forces
making the radius smaller.
Increasing nuclear charge (more protons) pulls the electrons closer to the nucleus,
and the screening effect of inner electron shells will be the same for all members of
a given period. The combined effect of both factors results in the electrons being
pulled closer to the nucleus and a smaller radius.
On the other side, in the same group, as we go down, the atomic radius of elements
increases. This is due to the energy level which increases when you move down in
group of the periodic table, the attraction of external electrons by nucleus decreases
and atomic radius increases.
In general, atomic radii increase down a group because a new shell is added for
each successive member of a group, leading to a greater radius. Then an increased
screening effect of extra electron shells i.e. the nucleus has less of a pull on the outer
electrons.
5.6.2. Electronegativity
Electronegativity is a measure of the tendency of an atom to attract to itself the
shared pair of electrons making a bond. The charge in the nucleus increases from
left to right across a period.The electronegativity of atoms is affected by both the
charge of the nucleus and the size of the atom. The higher its electronegativity, the
more an element attracts electrons. In general, the electronegativity of a non-metals
is greater than that of metals. Trends are observed in the period (Figure 5.3) or in a
group of the Periodic Table (Figure 5.4).
• In a period, the electronegativity increases from left to right. This is
explained by the fact that as we go from left to right, there in an increase
of positive charge in the nucleus, since the number of protons increases;
but the electrons are being added to the same energy level. This results in
the reduction of the volume or radius of the atoms from left to right and
explains why attraction of external electrons by the nucleus increases from
left to right.
• In a group, the electronegativity decreases from top to bottom. This is due
increase of energy levels down in a group, and thus there is an increased
distance between the valence electrons and the nucleus, or a greater atomic
radius.The positive charge of the nucleus is further away from the valenceelectrons and the nucleus cannot attract efficiently external electrons.
Note:
• Since noble gases do not react or do not form chemical bonds, their
electronegativity cannot be determined.
• For the transition metals, the electronegativity does not vary significantly
across the period and down a group. This is because their electronic structure
affects their ability to attract electrons easily like the other elements.
• The lanthanides and actinides possess more complicated chemistry
that does not generally follow any trend. Therefore, they do not have
electronegativity values.
According to these two general trends, the most electronegative element is fluorineand Francium is the least (Figure 5.4 and Figure 5.5).
The charge in the nucleus increases across a period. Greater is the number of protons,
greater is the attraction for bonding electrons.
5.6.3. Ionization energy (I.E)
Ionization energy: it is the amount of energy required to remove an electron from
a neutral gaseous atom. The lower this energy is, the more readily the atom loses
electron and becomes a cation. Therefore, the higher this energy is, the more
unlikely it is the atom to become a cation. We can distinguish, first, second, and third
ionization. Helium is the element with the highest ionization energy (Zumdahl and
Zumdahl, 2010). The noble gases possess very high ionization energies because of
their full valence shells compared to the elements of group 1 (Table 5.5).
The table shows that generally the IE decreases down the Group, as the size of theatoms increases down the Group.
Ionisation energy of rare gases or any species with an octet electronic structure show
very high IE because the electron is being removed from a very stable electronic
structure.
The ionization energy varies across a period and down a group.
Across a period ionisation energies increase because the nuclear charge increases
(greater positive charge on the nucleus) and holds the outer electrons more strongly.
More energy needs to be supplied to remove the electron.
Down a group ionisation energies decrease because the outer electrons are further
away from the nucleus. The screening effect of the inner electron shells reduces the
nuclear attraction for the outer electrons, despite the increased (positive) nuclear
charge.
5.6.4. The melting points and boiling points
Melting points and boiling points show some trends in groups and periods of the
Periodic Table.
As you already know, the Periodic table can be subdivided into two main area or
regions:
• the left region where you find only metallic elements
• the right region where you find both metallic and non-metallic elements;
all non-metallic elements are in the extreme right part of that region.
The general trends of melting and boiling points depends on the regions:
• in the left region, melting and boiling points generally decrease down the
groups due to the decrease of strength of the metallic bond down the
groups;
• on the contrary, in the right region at the extreme right in groups 17 and
18, there is a general increase of melting and boiling points down the group
due to the increase of the molecular mass;
• from left to the middle of the periodic table, there is an increasing of melting
and boiling points from left to right in a periode due the the increasing of
the strength of the metallic bond;
• whereas from the middle of the periodic table, there is a decrease of melting
and boiling points from left to right due to the progressive increase of nonmetallic character where elements exist as simple molecules.
The melting and boiling points vary in a regular way or pattern depending on their
position in the Periodic Table. In general the forces of attraction for elements on the
left of the table are strong metallic bonds; they require higher energy to be broken,
hence higher melting and boiling points.
As we cross toward the right side of the periodic table, the non-metal character of
elements increases and elements, except few elements, form molecules that are
held together by weak intermolecular forces; hence their melting and boiling points
are generally low.
For example going down in group 1, the melting point and boiling point of the
alkali metals decrease. This is due to the weakning of metallic bond down the group.
However, going down in group 17 of the halogens the melting point increases
meaning that there is an increase in the force of attraction between the molecules.
The illustrations below show the variation of melting and boiling point for someelements of the periodic table (Figures 5.6 and 5.7).
5.6.5. The density
The density of a substance is its mass per unit volume, usually in g/cm3
. The density
is a basic physical property of a homogeneous substance; it is an intensive property,
which means it depends only on the substance’s composition and does not vary
with size or amount.
The trends in density of elements can be observed in groups and periods of the
periodic table. In general in any period of the table, the density first increases from
group 1 to a maximum in the centre of the period because the mass increases while
the size decreases, and then the density decreases again towards group 18 because
of the nature of bonds.
Going down a group gives an overall increase in density because even though the
volume increases down the group, the mass increases more.The variation of density with atomic number is shown in the Figure 5.8.
5.6.6. Electrical and thermal conductivity
The electrical conductivity is the ability of a substance to conduct an electric current.
The electrical conductivity of elements increases from non-metals to metals. Metals
are good conductor of electricity. This is due to the presence of free electrons in
metallic lattice. The capacity of metals to conduct heat is called thermal conductivity
of metals. Electrical conductivity results from the transfer or mobility of electrons,
whereas the thermal conductivity in metal is due to heat transfer by free electrons
from one end of metal to another end.
As we move across the period from the left to the right, the electrical conductivity
increases for the metals as the number of free electrons increases and then decreases
for the non-metals because they do not have free and mobile electron.
1. Metallic character
Metallic character refers to the level of reactivity of a metal. Metals tend to lose
electrons in chemical reactions, as indicated by their low ionization energies. Within
a compound, metal atoms have relatively low attraction for electrons, as indicated
by their low electronegativities.
Metals are located in the left and lower three-quarters of the periodic table, and tend
to give electrons to nonmetals. Nonmetals are located in the upper right quarter of
the table, and tend to gain electrons from metal. Metalloids are located in the region
between the other two classes and have properties properties.
• Metallic character is strongest for the elements in the leftmost part of the
periodic table and tends to decrease as we move to the right of any period.
• Within any group of the representative elements, the metallic character
increases progressively going down.
2. The electron affinity (E.A)
The electron affinity is the ability of an isolated gaseous atom to accept an electron.
Unlike electronegativity, electron affinity is a quantitative measurement of the
energy change that occurs when an electron is added to a neutral gas atom. The more
negative the electron affinity value, the higher an atom’s affinity for electrons. In the
periodic table, the first electron affinities of elements are negative in general except
the group 18 and group 2 elements. The second electron affinities of all elements
are positive. This is because the negative ion creates a negative electric field. And
if now the other electrons enter the negative field, energy has to be applied to the
system to overcome the repulsion between the negative electric field and incoming
electron.
The more the electron affinity value is negative, the higher is the electron affinity of
an atom. Electron affinity decreases down a group of elements because each atom is
larger than the atom above it (refer to atomic radius trend).This means that an added
electron is further away from the atom’s nucleus compared with its position in the
smaller atom. With a larger distance between the negatively-charged electron and
the positively-charged nucleus, the force of attraction is relatively weaker. Therefore,
electron affinity decreases down the group.
Moving from left to right across a period, the electron affinity increases because
the electrons added to energy levels become closer to the nucleus and there is astronger attraction between the nucleus and electrons.
Checking up 5.6
1. The following table shows a part of a periodic table. Students have to answer
the following
Fill in the blank space with the correct term based on the above table.
The element with the least nuclear charge is …….and the one with the highest
nuclear charge …..Nuclear charge of S is ….than the nuclear charge of Se.
As you go from Na to Cl along the period nuclear charge ….
Effective nuclear charge….from B to Ga while it….from Na to Ar. Shielding or
screening effect ….. down the group but ……along the period from left to right.
Atomic size of Li is…. than that of K. Element with the least atomic size is (10)……
and the element with the highest atomic size is …….
Atomic size of Ca is …. than atomic size of Be because number of …….increases
down the group.
Atomic size …….. from K to Kr because electrons are filled on the same shell, the
…….continuously increase and attraction force increases.
Analyze and complete the following concept map using: ionization energy, atomicsize, electron affinity, electronegativity and metallic character
5.7. End unit assessment
1. The following are coded groups/families of the representative elements of the
periodic table (first 4 periods, s, p blocks only). The groups are in number of
particular order. Use the hints below to identify the group and place of three
elements of each group in their correct location in the periodic table: AOU, BVW,CKM, DLQ, ENT, FIJ, GPY, and HRS.
Hints
A has only one electron in p subshell
B is more electronegative than V
C has a larger atomic radius than both M and W
D has electronic configuration ending in p5
E is one of the most reactive metals
F has a smaller ionization energy than J
G has only 1 energy level with any electrons
H has one more proton than O and is in the same period as O
I is the largest alkaline earth metal
J has one more proton than E
K has electron configuration ending in p3
L has more filled energy levels than D
M is larger than K
N has the largest radius in its family
O is smaller than F but in the same energy level as F
P is smaller than Y
Q is the most reactive non-metal
R has the highest electronegativity in its family
T has the lowest density in its family
U more easily loses electrons (think about ionization energy) than either A or O
V has only 4 electrons in a p-subshell
W has 3 completely filled energy levels
Y has the lowest ionization energy in its family.
2. Based on the variation of ionization energy in groups and periods, how should
you explain the variation of first and second ionization energy down a group and
across a period?
3. Justify the following statements:
a) The first ionization energy of nitrogen is higher than that of oxygen even though
nuclear charge of nitrogen is less compared to oxygen.
b) Noble gases are having high ionization energies.
4. Give reason
a. Alkali metals (group 1 elements) are not found free in nature.
b. Atomic radius of gallium is smaller than that of aluminium.(Z of Al = 13, Z of Ga= 31
UNIT 6:TRENDS IN CHEMICAL PROPERTIES OF GROUP 1 ELEMENTS AND THEIR COMPOUNDS
UNIT 6: TRENDS IN CHEMICAL PROPERTIES OF GROUP
1 ELEMENTS AND THEIR COMPOUNDS
Key unit competence: Compare and contrast the chemical properties of the Group 1
elements and their compounds in relation to their position in the Periodic Table.
Learning objectives
By the end of this unit, students should be able to:
• Describe and explain the physical properties of Group 1 elements in terms
of metallic character and strength of metallic bond
• Describe and explain the reactivity of Group 1 elements with oxygen, water
and halogens
• State and explain the properties of Group 1 oxides and hydroxides
• Explain the trends in the solubility of Group 1 compounds
• State the uses of Group 1 elements and their compounds
• Compare the reactivity of Group 1 elements
• Interpret the trends in the thermal decomposition of Group 1 carbonates
and nitrates
• Perform experiments to test the alkalinity of Group 1 hydroxides• Carry out flame test for the presence of Group 1 metal cations in solution.
2. Identify elements of this group in question 1 above which are the most
and least reactive.
3. Give examples of compounds of some of the elements in the group in
question 1 above and suggest their uses.
6.1. Occurrence and physical properties of group 1 elements,
physical state, metallic character, physical appearance
and melting point
Activity 6.1.a
1. Study the following table of data and answer the questions that followData
metals. For this reason, the study of hydrogen is presented separately from the other
members of group 1 elements.
Francium is exceptionally rare. It is formed by the radioactive decay of heavier
elements.
Because Francium is both rare and highly radioactive, few of its properties have been
determined and we are not going to talk much about it in this Unit.
Physical Properties of Alkali Metals
Activity 6.1.b
In groups, learners make research in libraries / internet and discuss the physical
properties of group 1 elements and or explain the following statements
a) Group 1 elements show weak metallic bonding
b) Atomic radius of Na is smaller than the corresponding ionic radius of Na+
c) The shining appearance of metals disappears after a certain period of time.
Group 1 elements are grey metals, soft, and can be easily cut with a knife to expose
a shiny surface which turns dull on reaction with oxygen in air.
1. They have low melting and boiling points. They show relatively weak metallic bonding as only one valence electron is attracted by the nucleus. Also
they have a big atomic radius and the attraction of nucleus toward the valence electron is weak.
2. They are good conductors of heat and electricity
3. They have a low ionisation energies that decreases down the group
4. They have low density compared to other metals and Li, Na and K are less
dense than water
Group 1 metals color flames: When alkali metals are put in a flame they produce
Checking up 6.1
1. Discuss how the ionization energies vary in function of atomic radius for
group 1 elements.
2. Is there any relationship between the atomic radius and the melting
point in group 1 elements? Yes or No. Justify your answer
3. Why group 1 elements are said to be good conductors of electricity?
Illustrate your answer
4. The following table shows 3 unknown group 1 metals X, Y, Z and some of
their physical properties. Predict among the alkalis metal (Cs, Li, K), whichone should correspond to X,Y,Z. Justify your answer
6.2. Reactivity of group 1 elements with oxygen, water and
halogens
Activity 6.2 (a)
Analyse the case study below and answer the related question:
1. In groups learners discuss the following scenario and compare their
findings to the reactivity of a chemical element in terms of the variation
of atomic radius
Suppose that a hen is walking in the garden with its chicks. Some of the chicks
are feeding themselves just near the hen (mother). Other chicks are feeding
themselves far away from the mother. Which ones of the two groups of chicks willbe an easy prey of a predator? Explain.
Now extend your reasoning to the behavior of group 1 element and explain the
following statement
Group 1 elements react by losing their single electron in outermost shell. Arrange
them in order to show which one loses easily the single electron and which one
loses electron with difficult.
2. Consider a case of people who are warming around a fire; some are
near, others are a little bit far; who will feel the heat of the fire more thanthe others?
These activities show how the distance between two objects affects interactions
between them. The hen cannot protect the chicks that are far from her. In the other
case, people who are far from the fire feel less the heat of the fire.
This resembles the interactions between the nucleus and the valence electrons. The
attraction between the nucleus and the valence electron decreases with increasing
distance between the nucleus and the valence electrons.
When the atomic radius and volume increase, the distance between the nucleus and
the valence electrons increases, the attraction between the nucleus and the valence
electrons decreases, and it becomes easier to remove the valence electrons.
This explains the origin of properties of group 1 metals: they have low ionization
energy; lose easily the only one valence electron to form a mono-positive cation
(M+) with a rare gas electronic structure, and consequently are very active metals.
Activity6.2 (b)
a) Given the following elements of group 1(Na (Z=11), Li(Z=3), Cs(Z=55), K(Z=19) ,
Rb (Z=37). Arrange them according to their increasing reactivity and justify why.
b)Establish the electronic structure for the following species and explain how you
get it Na+,Na2+,Na-.Which one is stable and why?
6.2.1. Reactions with Oxygen
Activity 6.2.1
Experiment: burning an alkali metal in air/oxygen
Apparatuses: deflagrating spoon, Bunsen burner, glass beaker, filter paper,
Chemicals: lithium, sodium, potassium, water, and red litmus paper
Other requirements: knife, match box and petroleum gas
Procedure:
1. Cut a small piece of lithium and wrap it in piece of filter paper to remove the oil.
2. Place it on to a deflagrating spoon and heat it in a non luminous flame.
3. Observe what happens
4. When combustion is complete, dip the deflagrating spoon into a beaker of 100
ml filled up to 50 ml of water.
5. Stir the water with the spoon and then drop a piece of litmus papers into the
solution in the beaker. Observe
6. Repeat the experiment with sodium and potassium
Task on the experiment:
a) Write the equations of reactions that take place when each metal is burnt in air
b) Name the product that was formed in each case.
c) What are the color changes when the aqueous solutions above are tested with
litmus paper? Explain why?
d) Write the equations of reaction between each product in (b) with water
6.2.2. Reaction with water
Activity 6.2.2 Experiment to investigate the reaction of alkali metals with
water
Procedure:
Cut a small piece of sodium metal and put it in water in wide beaker and observe.
Test the obtained solution with red and blue litmus papers and observe.
Questions
1. Why is sodium so easy to cut?
2. What are the observations when sodium is placed in water in the beaker
3. Explain the observation when tests with red and blue litmus papers are
performed on the resulting solution and write the equation of the reaction that
takes place to explain you answer
6.2.3. Reaction with halogens
Activity 6.2.3
a) In terms of s, p, d, f orbitals write the electronic configuration of chlorine (Z=17),
bromine (Z=35) and iodine (Z=53)
b) Deduce the valency of each element.
c) Write molecular equations, complete and balance them, when
Sodium reacts with bromine Potassium reacts with iodineLithium reacts with chlorine
Checking up 6.2
1. An element J has 19 as atomic number while the element A has 35 as atomic
number.
a) Write their electronic structures in term of s, p, d, f orbitals and deduce their
respective valencies.
b) The element J is able to react with oxygen gas by forming two types of oxides
i) Write the formula of the 2 oxides that can be formed between the element J and oxygen
ii) Write the formula of the compound formed between J and A
iii) What type of bond does exist between J and A. Justify your answer.
c) Show how you would write the equation of reaction between J and water
supposing that J stands for the real symbol of the element.
d) When the reaction stated in (c) takes place a colorless solution and a colorless
gas are formed.
i) Which test would you use to identify each product of the reaction, by stating the
reagent and related observations?
Oxides of Group 1 metals dissolve in water to give strong alkaline solutions; that is
why they are said to form basic oxides.
6.3.2. Hydroxides
As said earlier hydroxides are formed when the metals or metals oxides are dissolved
in water. In solid state, these hydroxides dissolve very easily in water and in alcohol.
They dissociate completely in water to form alkaline solution; hence they are strong
bases. The basic character of the hydroxides increases as we move down the group.
Checking up 6.3
1. Complete and balance the reactions when water is reacted with the following:
a) Potassium metal b) Potassium oxide
2. Lithium hydroxide decomposes on heating. White powder X and a colorless gas
Y is released and condenses in a colorless liquid.
i) Write the chemical formula of X. ii) Propose a chemical test to identify Y3. Explain why Group 1 metals form ionic compounds?
6.4. The effect of heat on Group 1 carbonates and nitrates
6.4.1. Heating the nitrates
Activity 6.4.1
Experiment: effect of heat on nitrates.
In groups learners perform the following experiment, discuss and make
conclusions by explaining the observed phenomena, and write involved chemical
reactions.
Apparatus: glass test tubes, pair of tongs, wooden splint/match stick, Bunsen
burner/heat source and spatula.
Chemicals: Lithium nitrate, potassium nitrateOther requirements: match box
Procedure:
I.1.Take two spatula end full of lithium nitrate into a test tube and heat it strongly
until there is no further change.
2. Test the gases evolved with a damp blue litmus paper and a glowing splint.
3.Observe and make conclusions on your observations.
II .Repeat the procedure but using potassium nitrate/sodium nitrateLaboratory apparatus setting for thermal decomposition of a salt
6.4.2. Heating the carbonates
Activity 6.4.2
Experiment: effect of heat on carbonates of group 1 elements
In groups learners perform the following experiment, discuss and make conclusions
by explaining the observed phenomena, and write chemical reactions.
Apparatus: glass test tubes, pair of tongs, Bunsen burner/heat source and spatula.
Chemicals: lithium carbonate, calcium carbonate, potassium carbonate and
sodium carbonate, lime water
Other requirements: match box.
Procedure
I.1 Take a spatula end full of lithium carbonate into a test tube and heat it strongly
until there is no further change.2. Test the gases evolved with a damp blue litmus paper and lime water into another glass test tube as shown in the figure
3. Observe and make conclusions on your observations.
II .Repeat the procedure but using calcium carbonate, potassium carbonate /
sodium carbonate6.5. Solubility of group 1 compounds
Activity 6.5
a) Group 1 elements form ionic compounds.
(i) Explain why.
(ii)State the properties of ionic compounds
b) Explain why lithium forms compounds with a covalent character contrarily to
other elements of the same group. State the properties of covalent compounds
c) Both hydroxides and carbonates of lithium are less soluble than other hydroxides and carbonates of group 1.Why?
Activity 6.6:
Experiment: Flame test of alkalis metals
Materials: Mortar and pestle, beakers, Lithium carbonate, potassium sulphate,
sodium sulphate
Procedure: Flame test wire /magnesia rod
NB: Wear your safety glasses.
Dip the flame test wire/magnesia rod in the salt to be tested. Some of the salt
should stick to flame test wire/magnesia.
Gently wave the flame test wire/magnesia rod in the flame of the Bunsenburner and note the color given of
• NaOCl is used as bleaching agent and disinfectant
• NaCl is used in seasoning food, preparing hydrogen chloride gas, in soap
production, manufacture of sodium, chlorine, sodium hydroxide and
sodium carbonate.
• Molten sodium is used as a coolant in nuclear reactor. Its high thermal
conductivity and low melting temperature and the fact that its boiling
temperature is much higher than that of water make sodium suitable for
this purpose.
• Sodium wire is used in electrical circuits for special applications. It is very
flexible and has a high electrical conductivity. The wire is coated with
plastics to exclude moisture.
• Sodium vapor lamps are used for street lighting; the yellow light ischaracteristic of sodium emission.
a. The first member of the group often shows anomalous properties. Give two
properties in which the behavior of Lithium is abnormal and explain why.
b. How does each of the following properties of the elements in Group 1 change
with the increasing atomic number? Explain why.
i. Atomic radius
ii. Ionization energy
iii. Reducing properties
iv. Reactivity with water
v. Electronegativity
c. How will successive ionization energies of Na vary?
d. Why is the Na+ ion formed in normal chemical reaction rather than Na2+?e. How are ionization energies related to the reactivity of these elements?
UNIT 7:TRENDS IN CHEMICAL PROPERTIES OF GROUP 2 ELEMENTS AND THEIR COMPOUNDS
UNIT 7: TRENDS IN CHEMICAL PROPERTIES
OF GROUP 2 ELEMENTS AND THEIRCOMPOUNDS
Key unit competence: compare and contrast the properties of the group 2 elements
and their compounds in relation to their position in the periodic table
Learning objectives
By the end of this unit, students should be able to:
• Describe the physical properties of group 2 elements.
• Describe the properties of group 2 oxides and hydroxides.
• Explain the trends in the thermal decomposition of group 2 carbonates and
nitrates.
• Explain the trends in the solubility of group 2 compounds.
• State the uses of group 2 elements and their compounds.
• Describe the industrial manufacture of cement.
• Discuss the environmental and health issues associated with the
manufacturing of the cement.
• Perform experiments to compare and contrast the reactivity of group2
elements.
• Write balanced equations of the reactions of group 2 elements, different
elements and the compounds.
• Illustrate practically the trends in solubility and thermal decomposition of
group 2 compounds.
• Test the alkaline character of group 2 hydroxides.
• Be aware that the compounds of beryllium are different from the compounds
of the other group elements.
• Perform chemical test for the presence of group 2 cations in solution.
• Suggest preventive measures for environmental and health issues
associated with the manufacture of the cement.
• Appreciate the logic underlying the position of elements in the periodic
table ,their electronic structure and the properties.
• Appreciate the application of the chemistry of group 2 elements and their
compounds in the social economic development.
• Develop the team work approach while performing experiment and writing
field –study reports.
• Develop the attitude of sustainable exploitation of natural resources .
• Stimulate the culture of entrepreneurship in the area of chemistry.
Introductory activity 7
Complete the table below to identify the group 2 elements in the substancesfound in our surroundings: at home and at the school.
7.1. Occurrence and physical properties of group 2 elements
Activities
Name 1 or 2 elements of group 2 or their compounds that we commonly find inRwanda
7.1.1. Occurrence
Group 2 elements are active metals and are found in nature in form of compounds
or minerals such as: Limestone and marble for calcium, dolomite and magnesite for
magnesium etc… Hence Group 2 metals must be produced from the minerals theyare found in.
7.1.2. Physical properties
Group 2 elements are all metals, solid at room temperature; they are good conductors
of electricity. They have a silvery luster that soon disappears upon exposure to air.
They are malleable and ductile but less than alkali metals of Group 1. Their atomic
radius and their volume are smaller than those of Group 1 elements in the same
period. The Table 7.1 below shows some other physical properties of Group 2
elements.
Atomic radius increases down the group due to increasing of electronic levels.
Melting and boiling temperature decreases down the group due to increasing of
atomic radius resulting in weakening of the metallic bond.
The increasing of atomic radius explains also the decreasing of first ionization of
the elements down the group. This also explains that the metallic character of theelements increases down the group.
Checking up 7.1
Question1: Metals are reducing agents because they lose easily electrons. You are given
3 elements of Group 2: Be, Ca and Ba. Which one are you going to choose as the best
reducing agent, and explain why?
Question 2: How does each of the following properties of the elements in Group 2
change down the group and why?
i) Atomic radius
ii) Ionisation energyiii) Electropositivity
7.2. Reactivity of group 2 elements
Activities 7.2 (a)
Activity 1:
• Pour 200cm3
of water in two different beakers
• To the first beaker, add a small piece of magnesium ribbon. To the second
beaker, add a very small piece of sodium.
• Record your observation.
• Put a piece of blue and red litmus paper in both beakers
• Record your observations.
Activity 2:
• Pour 200cm3 of water in pyrex beaker or borosilicate beaker
• Heat until water boils
• Using crucible tongs, hold a large piece of magnesium in the steam• Record your observations
7.3. Properties of group 2 compounds
7.3.1. Ionic and covalent character of oxides and halides
Activity 7.3.1 (a)
• Pour 50 ml of paraffin in a beaker
• Put 1g of calcium chloride and try to make a solution.
• Pour 50 ml of water in another beaker
• Put 1g of calcium chloride and try to make aqueous solution
• Write down your observations and comments.
Activity 7.3.1 (b)
• Place a beaker on a table
• Cut 15cm of magnesium ribbon
• Using crucible tongs, hold and burn the magnesium ribbon over the
beaker.
• What do you observe?
• Add some water to the ash in the beaker.
• Shake the mixture and add 2 drops of phenolphthalein or touch the
mixture with a red litmus paper• Record all your observations.
The solubility of salts depends on two main opposite factors:
The energy of dissociation of the crystal: The energy needed to dissociate the
solid crystal into its ions. This process requires energy; the process is endothermic.
The energy of hydration of the ions produced: the amount of energy released
when ions undergo hydration or are surrounded by water molecules; this process is
exothermic.
When the combination of the two processes above is in favor of the hydration of
ions, the salt is soluble; otherwise the salt is not soluble.
The solubility will increase when the hydration process predominates moreand more the dissociation process and vice-versa.
7.6. Uses of group 2 elements and their compounds
Activity 7.6
Describe the following compounds and show how each compound can be used
to prepare another if possible.
a. Limestone b) Quicklime c)Slaked lime
b. Have you heard about soil amendment in Rwanda? What is it?
c. In groups, the students do research to find out how chalk used on
blackboard is produced.
1. Beryllium
Because beryllium is relatively light and has a wide temperature range, it can be
used in the manufacture of aircrafts’components.
2. Magnesium
• Chlorophyll, the pigment that absorbs light in plants, is a complex of
magnesiumand is necessary for photosynthesis.
• Magnesium hydroxide is used as Anti-acid medicine
• Magnesium is used in making Grignard reagents, the organomagnesium
compounds.
• Magnesium is used as sacrificial anode to prevent iron sheet from rusting.
• Salts of magnesium and calcium are used in chemistry laboratory as dryingagents.
UNIT8:TRENDS OF CHEMICAL PROPERTIES OF GROUP 13 ELEMENTS AND THEIR COMPOUNDS
UNIT 8: TRENDS OF CHEMICAL PROPERTIES
OF GROUP 13 ELEMENTS AND THEIR
COMPOUNDS
Key unit competence: Compare and contrast the chemical properties of the Group 13
elements and their compounds, in relation to their position in the Periodic Table.
Learning objectives
By the end of this unit, students should be able to:
• State the physical properties of Group 13 elements
• Explain the reactivity of Group 13 elements with oxygen, water, halogens,
dilute acids and sodium hydroxide
• Describe the properties of oxides, hydroxides and chlorides of Group 13
elements
• State the uses of Group 13 elements and their compounds
• Compare and contrast the reactivity of Group 13 elements with oxygen,
water, halogens, dilute acids and sodium hydroxides
• Perform experiments to show the solubility of Group 13 compounds
• Practically illustrate the amphoteric properties of aluminium oxides and
hydoxides
• Identify the anomalous properties of boron and its compounds
• Perform chemical tests for the presence of aliminium ion in the solution.
1. Consider the following elements: boron (z=5), aluminium (z=13), gallium (z=31),
indium (z=49), thallium (z=81)
(a)Write the electronic configuration of each element in term of s,p,d,f orbitals.
(b) State the period and the block to which each element belongs.
2. Draw diagram to show metallic bond in aluminium metal.
3. Cite one known application of an element of Group 13 in our everyday life4. Explain why aluminium is a better conductor of electricity than sodium
8.1. Physical properties of group 13 elements
Activity 8.1
In groups learners make research in library or on internet, discuss and explain why
a. Group 13 elements have higher melting point than group 1and 2 elements.
b. Boron has higher ionization energy than other element of the same group.
With the exception of boron, group 13 elements are metals. Boron is a non-metal
element with high melting point and low density.
Aluminium is a metal element and has a low density, it is a good conductor of heat
and electricity, shiny, malleable, ductile and it has higher melting point than groups
1and 2 metals due to strong metallic bond resulting from 3 valency electrons
involved in making metallic bonding in aluminium metal.
In small atoms electrons are held tightly and are difficult to remove, while in large
ones they are less tightly held since they are far away from the nucleus and are easy
to remove so that the ionization energy decreases down the group as the atomic
radius increases.
The greater the forces of attraction and hence the boiling point and melting pointdecrease down the group as the atomic radius increases.
8.2. Reactions of aluminium
8.2.1. Reaction of aluminium with oxygen
8.2.3. Reaction with alkalis
Activity 8.2 (d):
Reaction of aluminium with concentrated NaOH solution
Experiment
Learners perform experiments to investigate the reaction of aluminium with
NaOH solution
Apparatuses: thermometer, pyrex beaker,stirrer
Chemicals: aluminium powder,40% sodium hydroxide solution
Procedure:
• Prepare 40% of sodium hydroxide by mixing 60cm3
of water with 40g of
sodium hydroxide
• Take 0.5 g of aluminium powder into a pyrex beaker
• Pour the solution of sodium hydroxide in the pyrex beaker containing
aluminium powder and allow the reaction to proceed for about 5 minutes.• Use thermometer to record the temperature during the process
compounds; and only p electron will participate, hence the oxidation state +1.
For lighter members such B and Al the s and p valency electrons, having almost the
same energy, are always available and used at the same time to form compoundswhere they are in oxidation state +3.
8.4. Anomalous properties of boron
Activity 8.4
In groups learners make research on internet and in library, discuss and explain
the following statement:
a) Boron is a bad conductor of electricity
b) Boron has higher boiling and melting points than other member of the groupc) Boron oxide is an acidic oxide
Checking up 8.4
a) What is the cause of abnormal behavior of boronb) State any anomalous properties of boron
8.6. Uses of some group 13 elements
Activity 8.6
a. Teacher brainstorms learners and ask them to talk about different applications
of aluminium and its compounds in daily life.
b. Make research in libraries / internet and discuss about the use of aluminium,boron
and gallium and make presentations of your findings.
Aluminium
Aluminium is aboundant in the Earth’s crust and its applications are many. It is used
in:
• making cooking utensils: this is because of its bright appearance and
lightness, resistance to corrosion, and its thermal conductivity
• window frames or doors in buildings and houses
• overhead high tension cables for distribution of electricity: this is because
of its low density and very good electrical conductivity.
• alloys (e.g. Al and Mg) for the construction of airplanes and small boats due
to its lightness, malleability and higher tensile strength in the alloy.
• Being completely resistant to corrosion it is ideal for packaging food
• The insulating property of aluminium arises from its ability to reflect radiant
heat; this property is used in firefighters’ wear to reflect the heat from the
fire and keep them cool.
• The polished surface of aluminium is used in the reflectors of car headlights
• Aluminium is a component of clay (ibumba), mainly hydrous sulphate of
aluminium, used in the traditional production manufacture of clay pots
(ibibindi/ inkono).
• Clay is also one of the basic raw materials in the production of Cement
Boron
Applications of boron are found in:
• control rods to keep nuclear reactions in balance and avoid explosion; boron
absorbs excess neutrons preventing them from bombarding too many
uranium atoms which may result into explosion (fuel of nuclear reactors)
• the manufacture of hard boron steel
• as an additive to semiconductors silicon and germanium
• the manufacture of borosilicate glass used in vacuum flasks and test tubes
(a) Write a chemical equation to represent the reaction.
(b) Why is it necessary to dry the chlorine?
(c) What is the purpose of the soda lime?
(d) Aluminium chloride is dissolved in water. Write the equation for the reaction that takes place
2. (a) With reference to aluminium oxide, explain the term amphoteric oxide. Write
equations to illustrate.
(b) Explain with chemical equations why aluminium utensils are not washed in
strong alkaline solutions.
(c) Aluminium resists to corrosion. Comment and explain that popular saying.
3. If you need to prepare aluminium hydroxide, why is it better to add a solution
of ammonia to a solution of aluminium salt, rather than to add a solution of
sodium hydroxide.
4. How does gallium react with:
(a) hydrochloric acid
(b) Sodium hydroxide
5. Explain why aluminium is suitable for the following uses:
(a) Manufacture of window frames
(b)Electrical wiring
(c)Packaging food
(d)Suits for firefighters
6. Water is suspected to contain calcium and aluminium ions. State a chemical test
that should be used to confirm the presence of the suspected ions. State the
reagent, observations and related chemical equation if any
UNIT9:TRENDS OF CHEMICAL PROPERTIES OF GROUP 14 ELEMENTS AND THEIR COMPOUNDS
Key unit Competence
Compare and contrast the chemical properties of the Group 14 elements and their
compounds in relation to their position in the Periodic Table.
Learning objectives
By the end of this unit, students should be able to:
• Compare and contrast the physical properties of Group 14 elements.
• Compare the relative stabilities of the higher and lower oxidation states in
oxides.
• Distinguish between the chemical reactions of the oxides and chlorides of
Group 14 elements.
• Explain the trends in thermal stability of the oxide, halides and hydrides of
Group 14 elements.
• Explain the variation in stability of oxidation state of +2 and +4 down the
Group 14 elements.
Introductory Activity 9
1. State any elements of group 14 that is found in Rwanda. Where are they produced from? What are they used for?
2. State 2 allotropes of carbon and give a brief description of the structure of the
two allotropes.
3. Explain the variation in electronegativity of group 13 elements as you move
down the group.
4. Discuss the way the variation in size of atoms down a group affects their:
a) Metallic character
b) First ionization energy
c) Ability to form ionic or covalent compounds.
5. Describe the variation in melting points down group 1from lithium to potassium
• Define the diagonal relationship.
• Carbon, the first element of the group has two main allotropes: graphite
and diamond.
• In graphite allotrope of carbon, each carbon is bonded to 3 other carbon
atoms to form a hexagonal structure. The structure of graphite is made of
hexagonal layers which are attracted to each other by weak Van der Waals
forces such that the layers slide over each other to make the structure
soft(Fig.9.1). In graphite structure, there are delocalised double bonds with
mobile electrons that allow graphite to conduct electricity.
• In diamond, each carbon is covalently bonded to 4 other carbon atoms
forming a giant tetrahedral structure that makes it to be very hard (Fig.9.1).
In diamond, there are no mobile electrons as in graphite, hence diamond
does not conduct electricity.
• As you move down the group in the carbon family, the atomic radius and
ionic radius increase while the electronegativity and ionization energy
decrease.
• Atomic size increases on moving down the group due to additional
electronic shells.
• Density increases as you move down the group.
• Carbon is the only element in the family that can be found in pure form in
• Lead is the only element of group 14 that does not exist in various allotropes.
• Tin occurs as white, grey and rhombic tin.
• Group 14 elements have much higher melting points and boiling points
than the group 13 elements.
• Melting and boiling points tend to decrease as you move down the group
mainly because inter atomic bonding between the larger atoms reduce in
strength as you move down the group.
Moving down the group, there is an increase in atomic size which results in less
attraction of valence electrons by the nucleus. This change results in weaker metallic
bonding down the group and therefore there is a decrease in melting point, boiling
point, enthalpy change of atomization and first ionization energy.
The decrease in first ionization energy from silicon to lead is relatively little compared
to that from carbon to silicon because there is a large increase in nuclear charge
which counterbalances the increase in atomic radius from silicon to lead.
ii) The increase in metallic character down the group causes a general increase in
conductivity.
Carbon is typically a solid, non-metal. Carbon graphite is a non-metal but conducts
electricity due to delocalized electrons in its structure.
In its compounds, carbon almost invariably completes its valence shell by forming
four covalent bonds
Silicon is solid at room temperature and pressure, it is a semi-metallic element and
semi-conductor of electricity which is the second most abundant element on earth,
after oxygen.
It should also form bonds like C-C which are similar in strength to those of C and
other elements, particularly C-O bonds.
Silicon forms -Si-O-Si-bonds predominantly.
ii) Multiple bonds
Carbon forms double bonds and triple bonds between carbon atoms and that
bonding is formed by one Sigma bond and one π bond for double bond, one Sigmabond and two π bonds in a triple bond.
Checking-up 9.1
1. Explain the reason why diamond has a higher melting point than silicon.
2. Discuss the increase in metallic character when moving down in group 14
elements from carbon to lead.
3. Diamond and graphite are allotropes of carbon,
a) Draw their three dimensional structures.
b) With reference to their structures, compare the hardness of diamond and
graphite.
c) With reference to their structures, compare their electrical conductivity and
explain.
4. Germanium has the same structure as diamond. Explain the type of bonds that
exist in the two elements.
5. The first element in a group in the periodic table exhibits anomalous properties
compared with other members. Use carbon to illustrate this statement.
9.2. Chemical properties of Group 14 elements
Activity 9.2 (a)
1. Get a piece of charcoal and burn it. Observe and write the chemical equation
that represents the change that takes place when the charcoal burns.
2. a) Put about 1 gram of carbon charcoal in a boiling tube.
b) Add 1 ml of concentrated nitric acid.
c) Heat strongly on a Bunsen burner flame using a test tube holder
d) Observe and note the changes during heating.
e) Deduce the chemical changes that have occurred.
3. Write the molecular structure of carbon dioxide, carbonate ion and carbon
monoxide.
4. Describe how CO2
gas dissolves in water and state the nature of the solution
formed when it is in aqueous solution.
5. Describe 2 chemical properties of amphoteric substances.
Reaction of group 14 elements with acids and bases:Carbon does not react with dilute acids but reacts with hot, concentrated acids:
9.3 Difference between the chemical reactions of the oxides
and chlorides of Group 14 elements.
Activity 9.3
1. Measure 0.5g of lead oxide or decompose the same quantity of lead nitrate
crystals by heating.
2. Divide it into 5 portions and put each portion in a test tube.
3. In the first test tube, add 2mL of dilute hydrochloric acid solution in which universal indicator has been dissolved.
4. In the second test tube, add 2ml sodium hydroxide solution in which phenolphthalein indicator has been dissolved.5. Note the observations and deduce the acid–base nature of lead oxide.
Interpretation of results of the above activityThe reactions that take place are:
outermost p-electrons are involved.
The electrons in s orbital are much more tightly bound to the nucleus than
p-electrons. As we move down the group, the difference in energy level between s
sub-shell and p sub-shell becomes wider.
So if we use weak oxidizing agents, only 2-p electrons are removed. If we use a strong
oxidizing agent 2 s-electrons and 2-p electrons are all removed from the shell.
If the elements in group 14 form +2 ions, they will lose the p electrons leaving the
s-electrons pair unused. For example, to form Pb2+ ions lead will lose the two 6p
electrons but the 6s electrons will remain in its sub-energy level.
The inert pair effect shown in Pb2+ explains why the compounds of lead are
predominantly ionic
Carbon uses:
• As a component of fuel for combustion as charcoal or coal.
• As the main component of crude oil and its derivatives used in our everyday
life such: fuel, plastics, etc…
• As good chemical reducing agent used in extraction of metals (metallurgy).
• As a lubricant in moving parts of machines, to make electrodes, in lead
pencils when mixed with clay.
• Carbon isotope, C-14 isotope is used in archaeological dating.
• Diamond is used to make glass cutters, drilling devices and as abrasive for
smoothing hard materials as precious gemstone in jewelry and ornamental
objects; it is also a precious stone appreciated in jewelry.
Silicon uses:
• Silicon is used as a semi-conductor in transistors in electrical gadgets such
as radios, computers, amplifiers etc..
• Silicon in form of silicates is used in ceramics and in glass production.
• Silicon is also used in medicine to make silicone implants.
• Many rocks that we use for building our houses and other buildings are
Silicates.
• Ferrosilicon alloy is used as a deoxidizer in steel manufacture.
• Silicon dioxide can be used to produce toothpastes and in semiconductors;
silicon dioxide is the main component of sand, a raw material in the
manufacture of glass.
Germanium uses:
• Germanium being a metalloid, is used in transistors in electrical gadgets
such radios, computers, amplifiers etc..
Tin uses:
• Tin is used in plating steel sheets to resist corrosion; it is used for example
to make tinned cans to avoid the corrosion of the materials which are incontact with an acid medium.
9.7.1.The diagonal relationship in groups 1 & 2, 13 &14 elements
Diagonal relationships are similarities between pairs of elements in different
groups which are adjacent to one another in the second and the third period of the
periodic table.
These pairs are in Groups 1 and 2(Li/Mg), Groups 2 and 13(Be/Al) and Groups 13
and 14(B/Si). They exhibit similar properties; for example, boron and silicon are both
semi-conductors, they form halides that are hydrolyzed in water and have acidicoxides.
• Beryllium and aluminium have an appreciable covalent character of compounds
(e.g. the chlorides are predominantly covalent).
9.7.4. Diagonal relationship between Boron and Silicon
Due to its small size and similar charge/mass ratio, boron differs from other group 13
members, but it closely resembles silicon, the second element of group 14 to exhibit
diagonal relationship. Some important similarities between boron and silicon are
given below:
• Both boron and silicon are typical non-metals that exist as non-metallic giant9.8. End unit assessment
I: Fill in the following statements with a missing word:
1. The arrangement of atoms in diamond structure is called………………..
2…………………..is the only element of group 14 whose chloride does not
hydrolyse in water.
3…………………is a semi-metallic element of group 14 whose oxide reacts with
HF acid only
4…………………is the only element of group 14 that does not exist in various
allotropic forms.
5………………….is the only element of group 14 whose compounds in the
oxidation state of +2 is more stable than that of +4.
II. Answer the following questions:
6. Write the equations for the reaction of decomposition of:
a) Lead (II) hydroxide
b) Tin tetrachloride
7. Explain the amphoteric character of tinby using appropriate equations of
reaction.
8. Discuss the stability of +2 oxidation state as you move down in group 14
elements.
9. Explain the reason why the melting and boiling points of group 14 elementsdecrease down the group.
UNIT:TRENDS OF CHEMICAL PROPERTIES OF GROUP 15 ELEMENTS AND THEIR COMPOUNDS
UNIT 10: TRENDS IN CHEMICAL PROPERTIES OF GROUP
15 ELEMENTS AND THEIR COMPOUNDS
Key unit competency: Compare and contrast the properties of Group 15 elements
and their compounds, in relation to their position in the Periodic Table.
Learning objectives
By the end of this unit, students should be able to:
• Describe the physical properties of Group 15 elements.
• Describe the variation in the metallic and non-metallic character of Group
15 elements.
• Explain recall the physical properties of the allotropes of phosphorus.
• Describe the chemical reactions of nitrogen compounds.
• Describe the impact of nitrogen oxides to the environment.
• Describe the industrial preparation of ammonia and nitric acid.
• Explain the reactions of nitric acid with metals and non-metals.
• Describe the chemical properties of phosphorus compounds.• State the uses of the group 15 elements and its compounds
10.1. Physical properties of group 15 elements and the
relative inertness of nitrogen
Activity 10.1
In pairs:
1. Assign the physical state for each of the elements in group 15
2. Explain what is meant by the term “metallic character”.
3. Classify each element in this group as metal, non-metal or metalloid.
4. Study the following figure carefully and answer the questions that follow
a. Identify the molecule represented in the figure.
b. What type of bond is there in the molecule?c. Suggest if the bond is strong or weak
b. Metallic character
Down group 15 elements, the atomic radius increases which makes the outermost
electron to be less attracted by the nucleus as you move down the group. Therefore,
less energy is required to remove the outermost electron, which results in the
increase in the metallic character down the group. This results also in decreasing of
ionization energy down the group.
Nitrogen and phosphorous are non-metals, with the metallic properties first
appearing in arsenic and increasing down the group. Arsenic and antimony aremetalloids. Bismuth is a metal.
Checking Up 10.1
1. Briefly describe how each of the following factors varies in group 15 elements:
a) Atomic radius
b) Electron affinity
c) Melting point
d) First ionization energy
2. Explain the following observations:
a) In group 15 of the periodic table, metallic character increases as you move
down the group.
b) The atomic radii of two elements A and B from group 15 are 0.121nm and 0.141nmrespectively. Identify the element with more metallic character. Justify your answer
10.2. Reactions of group 15 elements
All group 15 elements exhibit a common valency of three. They can complete their
octet structure in chemical combination by gaining three electrons.
However, with the exception of nitrogen, group 15 elements have vacant d-orbitals
which they use to expand their octet to form compounds with a valency of five. For
instance phosphorous has a covalency of 5 due to availability of easily accessible
empty d orbitals which can be used for sp3
d hybridization that allows it to have 5unpaired electrons. Consider phosphorous, atomic number 15.
c. i) State whether each oxide of A you have given in (b) is acidic, basic, neutral, or amphoteric and justify.
ii) Write the equation of reaction to illustrate your answer.
10.3. Ammonia and nitric acid
Activity 10.3 (a)
Experiment: Laboratory preparation of ammonia
Materials and chemicals
Round bottom flaskor hard glass test tube, U-tube, 3 corks, 10 grams of calcium
hydroxide, gas jars, bent delivery tube and straight delivery tube, 5 grams of
ammonium chloride on a watch glass and calcium oxide lumps.
Procedure
1. Set up the apparatus as shown in the diagram, with the chemicals indicated. Do
not start heating yet.
2. When everything is in position, heat the hard flaskandcollect several gas jarsofammonia. Cover each jar with a glass slip and keep the jars for other experiments.
Activity evaluation questions
1. Record your observations
2. Write a balanced equation of the reaction that take place.
10.3.1. Laboratory preparation of ammonia and nitric acid
a. Laboratory preparation of ammonia
Ammonia is a covalent compound, consisting of nitrogen bonded to three hydrogen
atoms. It exists as a colourless gas at room temperature and it is naturally produced
during the decaying of nitrogenous organic compounds such as proteins. Ammonia
has a characteristic pungent odour.It is less dense than air and thus collected by
upward delivery method. In the laboratory it is prepared by heating a mixture of anyammonium salt and an alkali.
i. Uses of ammonia
Agricultural industries are the major users of ammonia. Ammonia and urea are used
as fertilizer, as very valuable source of nitrogen that is essential for plant growth.
Ammonia and urea are used as a source of protein in livestock feeds for ruminating
animals such as cattle, sheep and goats.
Ammonia can also be used as a pre-harvest cotton defoliant, an anti-fungal agent
on certain fruits and as preservative for the storage of high-moisture corn.
The pulp and paper industry uses ammonia for pulping wood and as casein
dispersant in the coating of paper.
The food and beverage industry uses ammonia as a source of nitrogen needed for
yeast and microorganisms involved in the fermentation process.
ii. Environmental impact for industrial production of ammonia
Making ammonia using the Haber process requires a lot of energy, which usually
involves burning fossil fuels. This releases carbon dioxide which causes global
warming.
b. Production of Nitric acid (Ostwald’s process)
In the industrial manufacture of nitric acid a catalytic oxidation of ammonia to
nitrogen (II) oxide,NO, is carried out then a further oxidation of nitrogen (II) oxide
produces nitrogen (IV) oxide, NO2
. Nitrogen dioxide is passed through water sprays
in a steel absorption tower to produce nitric acid. The excess nitrogen monoxide
is recycled back for more oxidation. Platinum is used as a catalyst. There are threesteps:
b. Oxygen in the presence of a catalyst
c. Copper (II) oxide
d. Hydrochloric acid
6. Write equations to show how nitric acid reacts with the following substances:
a. Copper
b. Sulphurc. Potassium hydroxide
10.4.1. Allotropes of phosphorus
By definition, allotropy is a property exhibited by some elements to exist in multiple
forms with different crystal structures. Allotropes are any two or more physical forms
in which an element can exist. Phosphorus exists in two main allotropic forms:• White phosphorus
When prepared, ordinary phosphorus is white, but it turns light yellow when exposed
to sunlight. It is a crystalline, translucent, waxy solid, which glows faintly in moist
air and is extremely poisonous.It ignites spontaneously in air at 34°C and must be
stored under water. It is insoluble in water, slightly soluble in organic solvents, and
very soluble in carbon disulfide. White phosphorus melts at 44.1°C, boils at 280°C.
White phosphorus is prepared commercially by heating calcium phosphate with
sand (silicon dioxide) and coke in an electric furnace. When heated between 230°C
and 300°C in the absence of air, white phosphorus is converted into the red form.
White phosphorus spontaneously takes fire in contact with air. White phosphorus isconsidered and has been used as a chemical weapon.
10.1.1 Environmental problems of using chemical fertilizers of nitrates
and phosphates
Nitric acid is mainly used in the manufacture of nitrates fertilizers. Excess use of
nitrates as fertilizers is responsible of one type of pollutions of lakes and rivers called
eutrophication.
Eutrophication results from the excessive richness of nutrients in a lake or a water
body which causes a dense growth of plant life. When those water plants die and
are decomposed, during the decomposition process that uses oxygen, they deplete
the oxygen of the water body and render that water incapable of sustaining living
aquatic organisms. In that case, the body of water is said to be dead (biologically).
The fraction of the nitrogen-based fertilizers which is not converted to be used
by plants accumulates in the soil or gets lost as run-off. High application rates of
nitrogen-containing fertilizers combined with the high water solubility of nitrate
leads to increased runoff into surface water as well as leaching into groundwater,thereby causing groundwater pollution.
UNIT11:TRENDS OF CHEMICAL PROPERTIES OF GROUP 16 ELEMENTS AND THEIR COMPOUNDS
UNIT 11: TRENDS OF CHEMICAL PROPERTIES OF GROUP
16 ELEMENTS AND THEIR COMPOUNDS
Key unit competence:
Compare and contrast the chemical properties of the Group 16 elements and their
compounds in relation to their position in the Periodic Table.
Learning objectives
By the end of this unit, students should be able to:
• Describe the physical properties of Group 16 elements.
• Describe the reactions between sulphur and oxygen.
• Describe the steps and conditions applied in the industrial preparations of
sulphuric acid.
• Describe the chemical properties of sulphuric acid.
• Describe the properties of oxoanions.• State uses of the Group 16 elements and compounds.
11.2. Comparison of acidity and volatility of group 16
hydrides
Activity 11.2
1. In pairs, carry out research and write a note on the following terms:
a. Hydrides
b. The strength of an acid
d. A weak acid
e. A strong acid
2. With an example, explain what is meant by the term “hydrogen bond” and showhow it is formed.
Safety:
Sulfuric acid is a very strong acid and is extremely corrosive to skin. Wear gloves
and safety goggles. During the reaction, steam is generated. It is hot. It is
recommended to work in a fume cupboard.
Procedure:
Spread some paper towels on the tray.
1. Put sugar into 300 ml beaker.
2. Insert stirring rod into center of sugar.
3. Put beaker on paper towels on the tray.
4. Add 70 ml of sulfuric acid to the sugar and stir briefly.
5. Stand about 1 - 2 meters away and wait for reaction to begin and observe what
will happen.
Clean Up: You might want to incorporate part of the clean up procedure into the
demonstration.
Remove black carbon column from the beaker and put it into a liter beaker with
some sodium bicarbonate (hydrogen carbonate). With spatula, break the column
of carbon into smaller pieces. Add a little water and set back on the tray. The
foaming action is also exciting.
Neutralize any acid spills with sodium bicarbonate and wipe clean. Leave lecture
hall clean for the next class.
Rinse all glassware and carbon chunks with lots of water. Carbon can be thrown
away in trash.
Study questions
1. Record your observations2. Write an equation for a reaction that takes place in this experiment
Step 1: Production of sulphur dioxide
Sulphur dioxide is obtained by either burning elementary sulphur or roasting metalsulphides in air in combustion chamber.
Checking Up 11.3
1. a) Describe the Haber or Contact process for the manufacture of sulphuric acid.
b) Why is sulphur trioxide formed in this process not absorbed directly in water?
2. Concentrated sulphuric acid acts as a dehydrating agent. What does it mean?
3. Write equations to show how concentrated sulphuric acid reacts with:
a. Zinc
b. Magnesiumc. Carbon
11.4 Properties of oxoanions of sulphur
Activity 11.4 (a)
1. Use the library and/or internet to explain the following:
a. Oxidation
i) In terms of oxidation state
ii) In terms of electron transfer
b. Reduction
i) In terms of oxidation state
ii) In terms of electron transfer
c. Oxidizing agent
d. Reducing agent
Activity 11.4 (b)
2. An experiment for Heating hydrated copper(II) sulfate
Objectives:
Students remove the water of crystallisation from hydrated copper (II) sulfate
by heating. Condensing in a test-tube collects the water. The white anhydrous
copper (II) sulfate can then be rehydrated, the blue colour returns.
Apparatus and equipment (per group)1. Two test-tubes
potassium sulphate, and calcium sulphate are not decomposed by heat.
Only certain sulphate salts are decomposed by heat when heated strongly. On
heating, some sulphates decompose to give either sulphur trioxide or sulphurdioxide or both.
Checking Up 11.4
1. Write equations to show how thiosulfate ions reduce the following substances:
a. Iodine
b. Iron (III) ion
c. Aluminium ion
2. Write equations to show the action of heat on the following sulphates:
a. Zinc (II) sulphate
b. Iron (III) sulphate
c. Copper (II) sulphate
3. When hydrated copper II sulphate solid is heated in a boiling tube, a white solid
Q and droplets of a colourless liquid P are observed.
a. Identify substances; liquid P and solid Q.
b. Explain the observation above.
Explain what would be observed if water is added to white solid Q.
11.5 Identification of sulphite and sulphate ions
Activity 11.5
Given a substance Y which contains one cation and one anion, identify the cation
and the anion in Y. Carry out the following tests on Y and record your observationsand deductions in the table below.
The first use of oxygen is in breathing and metabolism processes of all living
organisms.
There are many other commercial uses for oxygen gas, which is typically obtained
through fractional distillation of air. It is used in all operations involving combustion
as the active component of air.
It is used in the manufacture of iron, steel, and other chemicals. Oxygen is also used
as an oxidizer in rocket fuel, and for medicinal purposes. Mixture of oxygen and
ethyne (oxyacetylene) is used for welding and metal cutting.
11.6.2. Uses of sulphur
The main use of Sulphur is the manufacture of sulphuric acid.
Sulphur is also used in vulcanization of rubber, a chemical process for
converting natural rubber or related polymers into more durable and pressure
resisting materials by heating them with sulfur or other equivalent curatives
or accelerators. These additives modify the polymer by forming cross-links (bridges)
between individual polymer chains, making the final product very hard and resistant
to pressure and other conditions.
Sulphur is an ingredient in the manufacture of dyes, fireworks and other sulphur
compounds.
11.6.3. Uses of sulphuric acid
Sulphuric acid is a very important industrial chemical. It used to be called the giant
of chemical industry. It is used in the manufacture of hundreds of other compounds
in many industrial processes.
• The bulk of sulphuric acid produced is used in the manufacture of fertilisers
(e.g., ammonium sulphate, superphosphate).
• Sulfuric acid is also used in many other applications such as in: metallurgicalindustry, storage batteries, chemistry laboratories, etc….
UNIT12:TRENDS OF CHEMICAL PROPERTIES OF GROUP 17 ELEMENTS AND THEIR COMPOUNDS
UNIT 12: TRENDS OF CHEMICAL PROPERTIES OF GROUP
17 ELEMENTS AND THEIR COMPOUNDS
Key unit Competence:
Compare and contrast the chemical properties of the Group 17 elements and their
compounds in relation to their position in the Periodic Table.
Learning objectives
By the end of this unit, students should be able to:
• Prepare and test halogens.
• Perform experiments to prepare and test chlorine, bromine and iodine.
• Relate the oxidizing power of Group17 elements to their reactivity.
• Relate the acidity strength of oxoacids to the number of oxygen atoms
combined with the halogen.
• Compare the reactions of the halogens with cold dilute sodium hydroxide
and hot concentrated sodium hydroxide solutions.
• State the uses and hazards of halogens and their compounds.
• Test for the presence of halides ions in aqueous solutions
• State the natural occurrence of halogens
• Describe the extraction methods of halogens
• Explain the trends of physical and chemical properties of Group 17 elements
down the group
• Describe the trends in strength acidity, volatility and reducing power of
halogens hydrides
• Describe the chemical properties of chlorates, iodates, perchlorates andperiodates
Checking up 12.1
1. State 2 locations where chlorine can be found in nature.
2. Write the chemical formulae of the compounds of halogens in nature.
3. Give the name of one lake in Rwanda where salt is abundant in water.
4. Explain the separation method you can use to get the salt crystals from the
water.
5. Fluoride ion is the most difficult to oxidise into fluorine, whereas iodide ion isthe easiest. Explain why.
12.2. Preparation methods of halogens
Repeat procedures steps 1 to 7 but this time use solutions of KBr or NaBr instead
of KI in the boiling tube to prepare bromine and chlorine.
Activity 12.2 (b) Preparation of bromine and iodine
1. Put 0.5 gram of MnO2
in a round bottomed flask.
2. Pour concentrated NaBr solution (5 ml of a 0.1 mol/litre) in the round bottomed
flask.
3. Pour 5 ml of 1 mol/litre HCl solution in the round bottomed flask mixture.
4. Connect the apparatus to a delivery tube using a rubber stopper.
5. Heat the round bottomed flask mixture.
6. Direct the delivery tube in a solution of KI in a test tube.7. Note the observable changes.
Activity 12.2. (c): Electrolysis of concentrated NaCl solution
a) Put 1 g of NaCl in a beaker.
b) Add water and stir using a glass rod until all the salt dissolves.
c) Pour the solution in an electrolyser.
d) Connect the electrolyser to the source of direct current and switch on.
e) Dip a test tube full of water in the NaCl solution in inverted position from above
each electrode
f) Put 2 drops of phenolphthalein indicator in the solution under each test tube.
g) Record the observations that take place for 5 minutes.Apparatus set-up: Electrolysis of concentrated NaCl solution
12.2.1. Chlorine
Most commercial chlorine is obtained by electrolysis of chloride ions in aqueous
solutions of sodium chloride or molten NaCl.The reactions that take place are shown by the following chemical equations:
Interpretations
Chlorine is liberated by the reaction between 2M hydrochloric acid and potassium
permanganate solution. Chlorine displaces iodine from potassium iodide solution,which dissolves in water to give a dark-red solution, and turns starch indicator dark blue. The greyish-black residue is due to the formation of Iodine solid.
Activity 12.4.(a)
Laboratory preparation of Chlorine
Reactants:Sodium Chloride and sulfuric acid
Rocedure:
1.Put 50g of NaCl in round bottomed flask
2.Pour conc sulfuric acid throuth the filter fannel and heat
3.The liberated gas is pased throuth the concentrated sulfuric acid
4.Collect the gas by the Downward delivery
Note:The lower end of the thistle funnel must be dippen in acid,or you can use the funnelwith Syphon
12.5. Trends in strength of acidity, volatility and reducing
power of hydrogen halides
12.5.1. Acid strength
The acid strength is a measure of how an acid dissociates in water into its ions.
Strong acids dissociate completely into their ions, whereas a weak acid dissociatespartially into its ions.
bonds. It is liquid at room temperature while other hydrogen halides are gases.The trend in volatility:
12.5.4. Tests for halide ions in aqueous solutionTest of substance X with an unknown anion
Activity 12.5
Identification of ions:
i) You are provided with a solution of X substance.
ii) Put 1 ml of X solution in each of the 4 test tubes.
iii) Add in each test tube the reagent solutions as indicated in the table below.iv) Note down the observations for interpretation later in each test.
12.6. Chemical properties of chlorates, iodates, perchloratesand periodates
12.7. Uses of halogens and their compounds
Activity 12.7
1. When you want to eat food, salt is dissolved in it. Indicate the chemical composition
of table salt and its natural occurrence.
2. Chlorine compounds are used in the treatment of water. Explain how chlorine reacts to be a good disinfectant in water treatment.
3. a)Write the observations of the phenomenon that takes place when electrolysis of
a concentrated solution of chlorine is carried out in the laboratory. b) Deduce the
product of reaction that is formed at the anode.
12.7.1. Uses of HalogensHalogens and their compounds have many applications and uses in different
12.7.2. Hazards caused by group 17 elements
Bromine effects
• On heating, toxic fumes are formed.
• Reacts violently (explosively) with many compounds.
• Attacks plastics, rubber and coatings.
Chlorine effects
• It reacts violently with many compounds like ammonia and may cause fire
and explosion.
• It attacks many metals in the presence of water.
• It attacks plastics, rubber and coatings.
Chlorine oxide effects
• It may explosively decompose when it encounters shock and friction then
it may explode on heating.
• It reacts violently with mercury, phosphorus, sulphur, etc causing fire and
explosion hazard.
Fluorine effects
• It reacts violently with water to produce toxic and corrosive vapours: ozone
and hydrogen fluoride.
• It reacts violently with ammonia, metals, oxidants, etc, to cause fire and
explosion.
Hydrogen bromide effects
• It reacts violently with strong oxidants and many organic compounds to
cause fire and explosion.
• It attacks many metals forming flammable hydrogen gas.
Hydrogen fluoride effects
• It reacts violently with many compounds causing fire and explosion.
• On contact with air, it emits corrosive fumes which are heavier than air.
• It attacks glass and other silicon-containing compounds.
SF6 effects
• The substance decomposes in a fire to produce toxic fumes of sulphur
oxides and hydrogen fluoride
• When it is heated, there is formation of toxic fumes.
12.8. End of unit assessment
UNIT 13:PROPERTIES AND USES OF GROUP 18 ELEMENTS AND THEIR COMPOUNDS
UNIT 13: PROPERTIES AND USES OF GROUP 18
ELEMENTS AND THEIR COMPOUNDS
Key unit competence: Compare and contrast the properties of the group 18
elements in relation to their position in the periodic table.
Learning objectives
By the end of this unit, students should be able to:
• State the physical properties of the Group 18 elements.
• Explain the lack of reactivity of the group 18 elements.
• Associate chemical inertia of the group 18 elements to their full valence
shell.
• Recognize the importance of noble gases or group 18 elements in the daily
life.
Introductory activity
Make a research to find out the type gas :
Inside the Bulb, in balloon, responsible for different colors dispayed by this house(or in advertising sings)
13.1. Occurrence and physical properties of noble gases
Activity 13.1
The air is composed of a mixture of gases including water vapour.
i)Make a research (with any documentation) to identify its components and arrange them according to their abundances (Component1> Component 2,
etc…)
ii)Show how these components can react each other if possible
• If not possible, justify your answer.
iii)Explain how neon lamp works
13.1.1. Occurrence
• All the noble gases except radon occur in the atmosphere. Their total
atmospheric abundance in air is 0.03%; argon is the major component.
• Helium and sometimes neon are found in minerals of radioactive origine.g., pitchblende, monazite, cleveite.
Checking up 13.2
Question: Explain why in some applications such as air balloons, helium is
preferred to hydrogen?
13.3. Uses of noble gases
Activity: 13.3
Do a research (with any documentation) to find how each noble gas has been
discovered and its uses?
Helium
• Helium is a non-inflammable and light gas. Hence, it is used in filling balloons
for meteorological observations, replacing the flammable hydrogen gas.
• It is also used in gas-cooled nuclear reactors.
• Liquid helium (B.P:-267.8o
C) finds use as cryogenic agent for carrying out
various experiments and conservation at very low temperatures.
Neon
• Neon is used in advertising signs, it glows when electricity is passed through
it. Different coloured neon lights can be made by coating the inside of the
glass tubes with colored chemicals.• Neon bulbs are more used in our daily life.
Argon
• It is used in light bulbs. The very thin metal filament inside the bulb would
react with oxygen and burn away if the bulb were filled with air instead of
argon.
• Argon is used mainly to provide an inert atmosphere in high temperature
metallurgical processes (arc welding of metals or alloys).
• It is also used in the laboratory for handling substances that are air-sensitive.
Krypton
Krypton is used in lasers. Krypton lasers are used by surgeons to treat certain eye
problems. It is used in light bulbs designed for special purposes.
Xenon
Xenon is used in fluorescent bulbs, flash bulbs and lasers. Xenon emits an instant,
intense light when present in discharge tubes. This property of xenon is utilized in
high-speed electronic flash bulbs used by photographers.
Radon
Radon is radioactive and is used in medicine as a source of gamma rays. The gas is
sealed in small capsules, which are implanted in the body to destroy malignant (e.g.,cancerous) growths.
13.4. End unit assessment
1. a) Give a reason why the first ionization energies of noble gases are very high.
b) State one use of neon and give a reason to support your answer.
c) State and explain the trend in atomic radius among noble gases.
d) Why are noble gases unreactive?
e) Explain why the value of the first ionisation energy of neon is higher than that
of sodium.
2. Explain why Group 18 elements are rare on Earth?
3. The discovery of compounds of noble gases has been done, up to date, with Xeand Kr, not with He or Ne. Can you suggest a probable reason?
UNIT14:TRENDS OF CHEMICAL PROPERTIES OF PERIOD 3 ELEMENTS AND THEIR COMPOUNDS
UNIT 14: TRENDS IN CHEMICAL PROPERTIES OF PERIOD 3
ELEMENTS AND THEIR COMPOUNDS
Key unit competency: Compare and contrast the properties of the Period 3 elements and
their compounds in relation to their positions in the Periodic Table.
Learning objectives:
By the end of this unit, students should be able to:
• Compare the physical properties of the Period 3 elements.
• Describe the nature of the oxides of the Period 3 elements and the type of
bonding in their chlorides, oxides and hydrides.
• Relate the physical properties of the Period 3 elements to their position in
Periodic Table.
• Relate the physical properties of compounds of the Period 3 elements totheir nature of bonds across the period.
14.1. Physical Properties of the Period 3 elements
Activity 14.1
1. Write the electronic configuration of the following elements in terms of s, p, d
and f…
(i) Sodium (ii) Magnesium (iii) Aluminium (iv) phosphorous (v) sulphur
2. Considering the electronic configuration of magnesium and Aluminium, phosphorus and sulphur. How do you expect their ionization energies to vary?
3. How do you expect the general trend in ionization energy, electron affinity,
melting and boiling point, electronegativity to vary for the elements in the period 3?
4. Considering the electronic configuration of magnesium and Aluminium, phosphorus and sulphur. What can you say about them, how do you expect their
ionization energies to vary?
(a) Variation of First ionization energies (IE) of Period 3 elements
First ionization energy generally increases across Period 3 from left to right. However,
it drops at aluminium and Sulphur (table 14.1 and Fig.14.1). This can be explained interm of more stable electronic structures of the two elements after losing 1 electron:
Going across Period 3 from left to right, the number of protons in the nucleus
increases so, the nuclear charge increases. There are more electrons, but the
increase in shielding is negligible because each extra electron enters the same
principal energy level. Therefore, the force of attraction between the nucleus and
the electrons increases. So the atomic radius decreases as indicated in the Figure
14.2 and table 14.2.
(c)Variation of electronegativity of Period 3 elementsTable 14.3: Variation of electronegativity of period 3 elements
Figure 14.3: Graph showing the variation of electronegativity of period 3 elements
Going across Period 3 from left to right, electronegativity increases almost linearly
due to the nuclear charge increase as atomic radius decreases. There are more
electrons, but the increase in shielding is negligible because each extra electron
enters the same principal energy level so electrons will be more strongly attracted
to the nucleus.
You might expect argon (with 18 electrons) to be the most electronegative element
in Period 3, but its outermost energy level is full. Therefore, it does not form covalent
bonds with other atoms, so it is given an electronegativity value of zero.
d. Variation of melting and boiling points in Period 3
Melting and boiling points generally increase going from sodium to silicon, thendecrease going to argon with a “jump” at Sulphur (Fig 14.4 and Table 14.4).
The delocalized electrons are free to move and carry charge. Going from sodium to
aluminium, the number of delocalized electrons increases, there are more electrons
which can move and carry charge so the electrical conductivity increases.
Silicon is called a semi-conductor because at higher temperatures more electrons
are promoted to the higher energy levels so there are more delocalized electrons to
move and carry charge.
Phosphorus, sulphur and chlorine, the outer electrons are not free to move and carry
charge because they are held strongly in covalent bonds. In argon (mono atomic) the
outer electrons are not free to move and carry charge because they are held strongly
in a stable third energy level and this explains their zero electrical conductivity.
f. Variation of metallic character of period 3 elements
Metallic character decreases as you move across a period 3 in the periodic table from
left to right. This occurs as atoms more readily accept electrons to fill the valence
shell than lose them. Note that as the metallic character decreases across the period,
the reducing power decreases whereas oxidizing power increases.
g. Variation of electron affinity across period 3 elements
The electron affinity [EA] is the energy change for the process of adding an electronto a gaseous atom to form an anion (negative ion).
Checking up 14.1
1.Explain the variation of the following terms as applied in period 3 of the periodic
table:
(i) Ionization energy, Electronegativity, )
(ii)Explain the anomalous behavior indicated by magnesium and phosphorous in graph 14.1 above
2.The table below shows the melting points of the period 3 elements except forsilicon:
(a)Explain in terms of bonding why the melting point of magnesium is higher
than that of sodium.
(b) Predict the approximate melting point of silicon.
(c) Explain why chlorine has a lower melting point than sulphur.
(d) Explain the variation of metallic character, electronegativity, atomic radii
,first ionization energy, melting and boiling points, electron affinity andelectrical conductivity across the period
14.2. Chemical properties of period 3 elements
Study questions:
1. What do you say about your observations made in experiment above.
2. Write equation for the reaction that occurs in each test tube in procedure 2.
(b) Experiment to investigate the action of heat on period 3 elements
Materials /apparatus:
Water , test tubes, a piece of sodium metal, aluminium power/sheet, magnesium
ribbon/powder, phosphorous and sulphur powder, universal indicator , pair of
tongs, source of heat
Procedure:
1. Hold a piece of magnesium ribbon on a Bunsen flame and record you observation.
2. Repeat experiment 1 for sodium, aluminium, phosphorous and sulphur and
record your observation in each case.
3. For each of the products formed i.e. for metal oxides formed, add water and dip
a litmus paper to test their nature.
Note: if the oxide is gaseous hold a piece of litmus paper on the mouth of the test tube.
Study questions:
1.Write equations to show how the metals react with oxygen.
2. What would you expect to observe when the metal is burned in oxygen.
a) Reaction with water
Reactivity with water generally decreases across the period from left to right because
there is a decrease in metallic properties.
i) Sodium reacts vigorously with cold water to form sodium hydroxide and hydrogengas.
14.3. Compound of period 3 elements
The oxides of period 3 elements:
Activity 14.3(a)
1. Write the formulae of the oxides of period 3 elements
2. What did you consider when writing the formulae of the oxide in 1 above?
3. How do you expect the oxides to behave in water? Explain your answer.4. Suggest the trend of acid- base character of the oxides of period 3
middle, silicon forms a giant covalent oxide (silicon dioxide); the elements on the
right form simple molecular oxides with simple structures. The intermolecular forces
binding one molecule to its neighbors are van der Waals dispersion forces or dipoledipole interactions.
Physical properties of the oxides of period 3 elements
Melting and boiling points: the metal oxides and silicon dioxide have high melting and
boiling points because a large amount of energy is needed to break the strong bonds (ionic
or covalent) operating in three dimensions. The oxides of phosphorus, sulfur and chlorine
consist of individual molecules.
Electrical conductivity: None of the oxides above have any free or mobile electrons,indicating that none of them will conduct electricity when solid.
Acid-base Behavior of the Oxides
Activity 14.3 (b)
1. Classify the oxides in terms physical states of the oxides of period 3.
2. How do you expect the oxides react with water, acids, and sodium hydroxide.
(use equations to justify your answer)
3.(a) Predict the nature of oxides of period 3 elements when dissolved in water.
(b)What would you expect to observe when both blue and red litmus papers
are dropped into each of the solutions formed in question (2) above in water.
Acidity increases from left to right, ranging from strongly basic oxides on the left to
acidic ones on the right, with an amphoteric oxide (aluminum oxide) in the middle.Reaction of oxides with water:
Electrical conductivity: solid chlorides do not conduct electricity because the ions
are not free to move
Sodium, magnesium and aluminium chlorides are ionic and so will conduct
electricity when they are molten or in aqueous solution. The rest of the chlorides donot conduct either in solution or molten state due to absence of ions
Reactions with water
Checking up 14.3(c)
1. a. Distinguish between dissolving and hydrolysis.
b. Name one chloride that dissolves in water, and one chloride that undergo
hydrolysis.
c. State how the bonding in the chlorides changes on crossing the second and
third periods from left to right
Checking up 14.3(c)
1. a. Distinguish between dissolving and hydrolysis.
b. Name one chloride that dissolves in water, and one chloride that undergo
hydrolysis.
c. State how the bonding in the chlorides changes on crossing the second andthird periods from left to right
14.3.3. The hydrides of period 3 elements
Activity 14.4(d)
1. Period 3 elements from sodium to chlorine form different hydrides of different
bond nature, physical properties and structure.
(a) Write the formula of the hydrides formed by period 3 elements.
(b) Predict the nature of bonding based on your knowledge of periodicity of elements in the periodic table.
(c ) Basing on the nature of bonding predicted in (b) above. How would you expect their boiling and melting point vary across the period?
(d) Predict the nature of solutions formed by hydrides when dissolved in water.
What would you expect to observe if red and blue litmus papers were separately dropped into each solution?
Hydrides are commonly named after binary compounds that hydrogen forms with
other elements of the periodic table. Hydride compounds in general form with
almost any element, except a few noble gases. The common hydrides of period 3elements are as shown in the table 14.6 below
The hydrides above are examples of period 3 elements with some of their properties
summarized in the tabl. As we can see the hydrides of period 3 vary from ionic
hydride such as NaH at the left side to polar covalent hydride such as HCl at the rightside of the period.
a. In terms of crystal structure and bonding, explain in each case why the melting
points of sodium oxide and silicon dioxide are high.
b. Predict whether the melting point of lithium oxide is higher than, the same as,
or lower than the melting point of sodium oxide and explain your prediction.
c. Phosphorus (V) oxide has a lower melting point than sodium oxide.
i. State the structure of and bonding in phosphorus (V) oxide.
ii. Explain why the melting point of phosphorus(V) oxide is low.
d. Samples of phosphorus(V) oxide and sodium oxide were reacted with water.
In each case, predict the pH of the solution formed and write an equation for
the reaction.
4. Sodium chloride is a high melting point solid which dissolves in water to make
a colorless solution. Silicon (IV) chloride is a liquid at room temperature which
fumes in moist air, and reacts violently with water.
a. Draw a diagram to show the arrangement of the particles in solid sodium
chloride, making clear exactly what particles you are talking about.
b. Explain why this arrangement leads to a high melting point.
c. Draw a simple diagram to show the structure of silicon (IV) chloride, and explain
why silicon (IV) chloride is a liquid at room temperature.
d. Why is there such a big difference between the chlorides of sodium and silicon?
e. Briefly describe and explain the difference in electrical conductivity between
sodium chloride and silicon (IV) chloride in both solid and aqueous molten
state.
f. Write an equation to show what happens when silicon (IV) chloride reacts with
water.
g. Name another Period 3 chloride which behaves similarly to sodium chloride,
and one which behaves similarly to silicon (IV) chloride.
5. With the help of equation describe how the hydrides of period 3 react withwater.
14.4. End unit assessment1. Use the information in the following table to explain the statements below
3. The elements Sodium, Magnesium, silicon, phosphorous and chlorine are
members of the third period of the periodic table
a. i. Write down the formula of the principal oxides and chlorides of the elements
listed above and in each case indicate the type of bonding.
ii. Explain what happens when each of the above oxides and chloride is added to
water and indicate whether the resultant solution will be acidic, basic or neutral.
c. The melting points of Mg , Si and S are 6500
C, 14230
C respectively. Explain the
differences in the melting points of the elements.
d. Name the type of bonding that exists in the hydrides of the elements Sodium,
Phosphorous and sulphur and write the equations to show the reactions if any
of the hydrides with water.
4. Choose from the elements: Sodium, magnesium aluminium, silicon, phosphorous, chorine and argon
a. List the elements that react readily with cold water to form alkaline solutions.
And write the equations for the reactions.
b. List the hydrides that have hydrides with low boiling points/temperatures and
explain why.
c. List the elements that form nitrates and write the formulae of nitrates.
d. What is the most ionic compound that can be formed by the combination of
two of these elements.
e. Which element has both metallic and non metallic properties?
f. Name the elements that normally exist as moleculesUNIT15:FACTORS THAT AFFECT CHEMICAL EQUILIBRIUM
UNIT15: FACTORS THAT AFFECT CHEMICAL EQUILIBRIUM
Key unit competency: Deduce how concentration, pressure, catalyst and
temperature affect the chemical processes in industry.Learning Objectives
By the end of this unit, students should be able to:
• Distinguish between complete and reversible reactions.
• Explain dynamic equilibrium.
• State the characteristics of dynamic equilibrium.
• Explain the factors that affect the position of the equilibrium in a reversible
reaction.
• Apply Le Châtelier’s principle to explain the effects of changes in the
temperature, concentration and pressure on a system in equilibrium.
• Compare and contrast theoretical and actual optimal conditions in the
industrial processes.
• Relate the effect of concentration, temperature, pressure and catalyst to the
amount of products in the manufacturing industries.
• Recognize the importance of Le Châtelier’s principle in Haber and Contactprocesses.
The above figure shows that when two teams pull on a rope with equal force. The
resulting force is equal in magnitude and equal to zero and the rope does not move,
the system is said to be in equilibrium. Students in figure (a) represent a system
in equilibrium. The equal and opposite forces on both ends of the seesaw are
balancing. If, instead one force is greater in magnitude than the other, the system
is not in equilibrium [ figure (b)]In chemistry, a chemical reaction is a process where old bonds are broken and new
bonds are formed. For a chemical reaction to take place, two or more substances
called reactants are interacted. In general, when reactants collide with sufficient
energy and in a proper orientation, the products are formed. Many chemical
reactions proceed to a certain extent and stop. In some cases, reactants combine
to form products and the products also start combining to give back the reactants.
When such opposing processes take place at equal rates, no reaction appears and itis said that a state of equilibrium has reached.
15.1. Difference between complete and incomplete reactions
(irreversible versus irreversible reactions)
Activity 15.1
1. Write any two equations of your choice to show a reaction that undergo completion.
2. Write any two equations of your choice to show a reaction that does not go
completion
A chemical reaction can proceed in either non-reversible (irreversible or
complete) or reversible reaction.
During chemical processes, many chemical reactions do not undergo completion
but instead they attain a state of chemical equilibrium. Chemical reaction can
proceed in either non-reversible (irreversible or complete) or reversible reaction.
A non-reversible reaction is a reaction which proceeds in only one direction, inother words, the reactants are completely transformed into products.
15.2. Concept of equilibrium (dynamic equilibrium) and its
characteristics
Activity 15.2
1. Explain the terms used in equilibrium reactions.
(a)Reversible reaction (b) equilibrium state (c) dynamic equilibrium (d) position of
equilibrium.
2. Suggest and explain the characteristics of dynamic equilibrium and how it can
be attained.
3. Learners should do a tug-of-war game outsidetheclassroom and comment on
the game.
4. In a given Hotel, clients enter others leave. At a certain moment if the number
of leavers and arrivals is equal, the number of the clients in the Hotel doesn’t
change.
i. Has the movements of clients coming in and out stopped?
ii. How can you qualify that status?iii. How can you compare this with chemical equilibrium?
15.2.1. Concept of equilibrium reactions
When a chemical reaction takes place in a container which prevents the entry or
escape of any of the substances involved in the reaction, the quantities of these
components change as some are being consumed and others are being formed at
the same time.
Chemical equilibrium is the state at which the rate of forward reaction becomes
equal to the rate of backward reaction.At the initial state, the rate of forward reaction is greater than the rate of backward
reaction. However as the products are formed, the concentration of reactantsdecreases and the concentration of products increases.
Figure 15.5 variation of concentration of A and B with time for reversible reaction
Consider the reaction A B; the figure15.4 (b) indicates how the concentration
of A decreases while that of B increases for the reaction. The dotted vertical line
indicates the time when the concentrations of A and B are no longer changing.
If the reversible reaction is carried out in a closed system, the reaction is said to be in
the equilibrium state when the forward and backward reaction occur simultaneously
at the same rate and the concentrations of reactants and products do not change
with time (Figure 15.4 b).
At this point, the rates of forward and reverse reactions are the same and the system
is said to have reached a state of dynamic equilibrium.
A dynamic equilibrium is a process where the forward and reverse reactions
proceed at the same rate;at that moment the concentrations of reactants andproducts remain constant (do not change).
However, in dynamic equilibrium, even if the concentrations of reactants andproducts do not change, it does not mean that the reaction has stopped. Rather, the
reaction is proceeding in a way that it keeps the concentrations unchanged (the net
change is zero).
There are two types of chemical equilibrium: homogeneous and heterogeneous
equilibria.
In a homogeneous equilibrium, all the reactants and the products are in the samephase.
Checking up 15.2
1. Briefly explain the characteristics of reactions at equilibrium
2. Compare the homogeneous and heterogeneous reactions using specific
examples.
3. By giving an example, describe the term dynamic equilibrium.
4. When does a reaction attain equilibrium state?
5. Using a graph and specific examples, explain what happens during a reactionbefore, at and after the equilibrium has been attained.
Activity 15.3(a)1. Around 1908-1909 a young German research chemist, Fritz Haber, had discovered that nitrogen and hydrogen would form an equilibrium mixture containing ammonia.
(a) Write a balanced equation for the formation of ammonia.
(b)Haber’s experiment yielded an equilibrium mixture containing only 8% by volume of ammonia. What conditions of temperature and pressure does Le Châtelier’s principle predict for maximum yield of ammonia at equilibrium?
(c) Why do you think Haber employed the catalyst accompanied with promoters
and heat exchanger in his equipment?
2. How is Le Châtelier’s principle used to explain the conditions that affect the
equilibrium reactions?
Many industrial processes involve reversible reactions. It is important to understand
how the variation of conditions can affect the composition of a chemical equilibrium.
Some reactions to take place involve some conditions. For example, the rate of a
chemical reaction depends on factors that affect the reaction.
Different factors which can affect the chemical equilibrium include:
1. Temperature
2. Pressure
3. Concentration of reactants and products
The effect of the above-mentioned factors on chemical equilibrium can be explained
by the Le Châtelier’s Principle.
Le Châtelier’s Principle
According to Le Châtelier’s Principle, when the temperature, pressure or concentration
of a reaction in equilibrium is changed, the reaction shifts in the direction where the
effect of these changes is reduced.
15.3.1. Effect of Temperature on equilibrium
Activity 15.3(b)
1. Explain the following terms
(a)Endothermic (b)Exothermic
(c) Suggest how temperature affects the position of equilibrium.
When dealing with temperature, we distinguish exothermic and endothermic
reactions. A change in the temperature of a system already in equilibrium could
either shift the equilibrium to the right (favoring the forward reaction) or to the left
(favoring the backward reaction). This depends on whether the forward reaction is
exothermic or endothermic. Heat can be considered a reactant in an endothermic
reaction and a product in an exothermic reaction. For a reversible reaction, when
the forward reaction is exothermic, the enthalpy change is negative (ΔH < 0), then
the backward reaction is endothermic and the enthalpy change is positive (ΔH > 0).
For exothermic forward reactions, an increase in temperature will cause the system
to counter balance it by favouring the reaction that consumes heat, hence the
backward reaction will be favoured or promoted. On the contrary, if the temperature
is decreased, the system reacts to produce more heat by favouring the forwardreaction.
15.3.2. The effect of change in concentration on equilibrium
Activity 15.3(c):
Experiment to investigate the effect of changing concentration on
equilibrium
Equipment/materials
According to Le Châtelier’s principle, an increase in pressure favours the reaction in
the direction where the volume of reactants is reduced, or less molecules of gas are
formed, and a decrease in pressure favours the reaction in the direction where thevolume of reactants is increased, or more molecules of gas are formed.
To obtain much ammonia in the equilibrium mixture, a high pressure of 200
atmospheres is needed.The effect of pressure can be summarized by the graph indicated below
High Pressure gives a good yield of ammonia as indicated from the graph above, at
400 atmosphers the yield of ammonia is 70%
Higher pressure increases the rate of reaction
However, the higher the pressure used, the higher the cost of the equipment needed
to withstand the pressure.
The higher the pressure the higher the electrical energy costs for pumps to produce
the pressure.
A moderately high pressure of between 150 – 300 atmospheres is used.
15.3.4. The effect of a catalyst on equilibrium
Activity 15.3.4
1. What is an enzyme?
2. What is a catalyst? Name the catalyst used in the Haber process and contact
process
3. What would happen if the enzymes involved in the digestion of food were not
present?
4. Most of the metabolic processes in the body are controlled by enzymes. What
would happen to these metabolic processes if the enzymes were missing?
The function of a catalyst is to speed up the reaction by lowering the activation
energy. The catalyst lowers the activation energy of the forward reaction and reverse
reaction to the same extent. Adding a catalyst doesn’t affect the relative rates of the
two reactions and therefore the catalyst has no effect on the equilibrium system.
But the catalyst helps the system to reach the equilibrium more quickly. The catalyst
does not appear in the overall equation of the reaction.
Practical and financial aspects: In industry, all the above factors must be considered,
taking in account not only the theoritical advantages but also their costs and risks.That is why for example the manufacture of ammonia is based on a compromise of
15.4. End unit assessment
UNIT 16:ACIDS AND BASES
UNIT 16: ACIDS AND BASES
Key unit Competence: Explain the acid-base theories (Arrhenius, Bronsted–Lowry,
Lewis).
Learning Objectives:
By the end of this unit, students should be able to:
• Explain the concept of acid and base using Arrhenius, Brønsted-Lowry and
Lewis’ theory.
• Distinguish strong acids from weak acids and strong bases from weak bases
using Brønsted-Lowry theory.
• Classify the acids and bases as strong or weak according to their dissociation
in aqueous solution.
• Distinguish between Brønsted-Lowry and Lewis’ Acid-Base theories.
• Write the dissociation of acids and bases and identify the acid-baseconjugate pairs
16.1.1. Arrhenius Theory of Acid-Base
The first person to recognize the essential nature of acids and bases was the Swedishscientist Svante Arrhenius (1859–1927). On the basis of his experiments with
a. Two strongest acidic substances
b. Two weakest acidic substances
c. Two most alkaline substances
d. Two least alkaline substancese. Neutral substance (s)
16.2. End unit Assessment
UNIT 17:REDUCTION AND OXIDATION REACTION
UNIT17: REDUCTION AND OXIDATION REACTION
Key unit competency: Explain the concept of reduction and oxidation and balance
equations for redox reactions
Learning Objectives
By the end of this unit, students should be able to
• Explain the redox reactions in terms of electron transfer and changes in
oxidation state (number).
• Explain the concept of disproportionation
• Differentiate the reducing agent from the oxidizing agent in a redox
reaction.
• Work out the oxidation numbers of elements in the compounds.
• Perform simple displacement reactions to order elements in terms of
oxidizing or reducing ability.
• Apply half-reaction method to balance redox reactions.• Deduce balanced equations for redox reactions from relevant half equations.
redox reactions.
Activity 17.1.
1. Use examples to differentiate redox reactions from other chemical reactions
2. Explain this statement: “Electrochemistry is a chapter of chemistry that studies
the chemical reactions that produce electricity”
Electrochemistry is defined as the study of the interchange of chemical and Electrical
energy. It is primarily concerned with two processes that involve oxidation–reduction
reactions: the generation of an electric current from a spontaneous chemicalreaction
and, the opposite process, the use of a current to produce chemical change.
Electrochemistry is important in other less obvious ways. For example, the corrosion
of iron, which has tremendous economic implications, is an electrochemical process.
In addition, many important industrial materials such as aluminum, chlorine, and
sodium hydroxide are prepared by electrolytic processes.
Hence a redox reaction is a combination of two half-reactions: an oxidation halfreaction and a reduction half-reaction. Nevertheless, one half-reaction cannot exist
without the other, because electrons lost in the oxidation process must be captured
in the reduction process, this explains why we talk of oxidation-reduction or redox
reaction.
The characteristic of a redox reaction is that there is exchange or transfer of electrons
between chemical species participating in the reaction.
We can compare this to the emigration-immigration movement: when a person
leaves a country, emigration for that country, he/she must enter another country,
immigration for that country and this constitutes an emigration-immigration
movement.We notice that any chemical species whose oxidation state increases is oxidized:
1. Aqueous copper (II) ion reacts with aqueous iodide ion to yield solid copper (I)
iodide and aqueous iodine.
a. Write the net ionic equation,
b. Assign oxidation numbers to all species present, andc. Identify the oxidizing and reducing agents.
The oxidation number of an atom is the apparent or real charge that the atom has
when all bonds between atoms of different elements are assumed to be ionic. By
comparing the oxidation number of an element or chemical species before and
after reaction, we can tell whether the atom has gained or lost electrons. Note that
oxidation numbers don’t necessarily imply ionic charges; they are just a convenientdevice to help keep track of electrons during redox reactions.
17.5. Balancing of redox equations
3. To the second portion add a few drops of hydrogen peroxide followed by one
or two drops of dilute surphuric acid and warm gently. Allow the solution to
cool (or cool it under running tap water). To the cold solution add drop wise 2M
NaOH until there is no further change. Record your observations. Add dilute
sulphuric acid to the resultant product and note down your observations. Rinse
the test tube thoroughly
4. To the third portion, add about 1 cm3
of dilute hydrogen peroxide solution followed by one or two drops of dilute sulphuric acid. Warm gently and test the
gas produced with a glowing splint. Allow the solution to cool (or cool it using
running tap water).To the cold solution add ammonia solution drop wise until
no further change. Compare the product formed when ammonia solution tothat obtained when sodium hydroxide was used.
Study Questions
1. Name the products formed when dilute sulphuric acid reacts with iron powder.
Write a balanced formula equation for the reaction
2. When dilute sulphuric acid reacts with iron powder, iron atoms are oxidized and
hydrogen ions are reduced. Write a balanced
a) oxidation half-equation
b) reduction half-equation and
c) overall redox equations for the reaction between iron and sulphuric acid
3. What is the effect of adding a hydrogen peroxide in step 4?
4. What will be the effect of adding concentrated nitric acid to any iron salt?
Explain why concentrated nitric acid does not react with pure iron metal
17.5.1. Rules for balancing redox reactions
The Half-Reaction Method for Balancing Oxidation–Reduction Reactions in
Aqueous Solutions
For oxidation–reduction reactions that occur in aqueous solution, it is useful to
separate the reaction into two half-reactions: one involving oxidation reaction and
the other involving reduction reaction. Then after balancing those half reactions,
find the overall oxidation-reduction (redox) reaction by combining the two halfreactions.
For example, consider the unbalanced equation for the oxidation– reduction
reaction between cerium(IV) ion and tin(II) ion:
2. Place the test tubes in a 400 mL beaker that is about 1/3 full of boiling water.
After
a few minutes, look for evidence of reaction. Note any changes. Did some metals
that didn’t react with cold water, react with hot water?
3. Place a small sample of each metal in test tubes containing 5 mL of 1.0 mol/L
hydrochloric acid, HCl. Watch for evidence of reaction. Note any changes
4. Place a small sample of magnesium ribbon in test tube containing 5 mL of 1M
copper (II) sulphate. Watch for evidence of reaction and note any changes
Study questions
1) Considering sodium, magnesium, zinc, and copper:
Arrange the metals in order of increasing reactivity (from least reactive to most reactive)
2) Which of the four metals are reacting with cold water? For those metals that did
react, write a balanced symbolic equation.
3) Which of the four metals are reacting with hot water? For those metals that did
react, write a balanced symbolic equation.
4) Which of the four metals are reacting with the hydrochloric acid? For those
metals that did react, write a balanced symbolic equation.
5) Which metal did not react with either water or hydrochloric acid?
6) Which of the four metals would be suitable for making saucepans? Explain why
the others are not.
7. Describe what you would see if you dropped a piece of magnesium ribbon into
some copper (II) sulphate solution in a test tube. Write a chemical equation for
the reaction.
The reactivity series is a series of metals, in order of reactivity, as reducing agents,
from highest to lowest reducing agent. It is used to determine the products of single
displacement reactions, whereby metal A will displace another metal B in a solution
if A is higher in the series. Although hydrogen is not a metal, it is included in the
reactivity series for comparison (Table 17.2).
When a metal is placed in a solution of another metal salt, and if the metal is more
active than the metal in the salt, the more active metal displaces the other metal
17.7. End unit assessment
b) Write balanced equations for each reaction that took place.
18. Sulfur dioxide reacts with water to form sulfite ion. Is this a redox reaction?
Justify your answer.
19. In each of the following balanced redox equations, identify:
i) the species oxidized and their new oxidation numbers
(ii) the species reduced and their new oxidation numbers.
(iii) the reducing agent(iv) the oxidizing agent
i) copper + chromium sulfate
ii) magnesium + chromium sulfate
iii) chromium + copper sulfated. Compare the reactivity of chromium with those of iron and zinc
UNIT 18:ENERGY CHANGES AND ENERGY PROFILE DIAGRAM
UNIT 18: ENERGY CHANGES AND ENERGY PROFILE
DIAGRAMS
Key unit Competence: Explain the concept of energy changes and energy profile
diagrams for the exothermic and endothermic processes.
Learning Objectives
By the end of this unit, student should be able to:
• Define the term Thermochemistry.
• Explain the concept of system and distinguish between the types of systems.
• Distinguish between Temperature and heat.
• Explain the concept of Exothermic and endothermic reactions and represent
them using energy profile diagrams.
• Carefully deal with reactions that produce a lot of energy.
• Appreciate the use of chemical energy in daily life.
• Respect the experimental protocol during chemistry practicals.
• Relate the type of reaction to its energy profile diagram.
• Interprete the experimental results about energy changes occurring during
chemical reactions.
• Explain the energy change as a function of the breaking and formation of
chemical bonds.
18.1. Concept of a system
18.1. Concept of a system
Activity 18.1
Topic: Energy transfer between a system and surroundings.
Apparatus and equipment (per group)
• Eye protection
• Four test-tubes or four expanded polystyrene cups with lids to act as
calorimeters
• Spatula
• Teat pipette or small measuring cylinder
• Thermometer
• Access to a balance
Experiment 4
Repeat the same procedure as in experiment 1 but use copper (II) sulphate
solution and Zinc powder instead of water and anhydrous copper (II) sulphate respectively.
Safety
• Wear eye protection.
• Anhydrous copper (II) sulfate is harmful.
• Zinc powder is flammable.
Introduction
Instant hot and cold packs are available for use in first aid. This experiment
illustrates the types of chemical reaction that occur in these packs.
Study questions
1. Identify the reactions that are exothermic and those that are endothermic.
2. Write symbol equations to represent the chemical reaction taking place in Experiment 3.
3. Which two substances could be put in a cold pack?
4. Golfers need a hand warmer to keep their hands warm on a cold day. Which
chemicals could be put in these warmers?
All chemical reactions involve the breaking of bonds in the reactants and the
formation of new bonds in the products. The breaking of bond requires energy,
whereas the formation of bond releases energy.
Thermochemistry is the study of heat and energy associated with a chemical
reaction or a physical transformation. Thermodynamics is the study of the
relationship between heat, work, and other forms of energy. A reaction may release
or absorb energy, and a phase change may do the same, such as in melting and
boiling. Energy is exchanged between a closed system and its surroundings during
the heating and cooling processes.
A system is a part of the universe which is studied using laws of thermodynamics.
Everything outside the system is the surroundings. An infinitely small region
separating the system from the surroundings is called boundary. In Chemistry the
chemical system consists of reactants and products. The systems are classified
according to the number of factors including the composition and the interaction
with the surroundings. A system can be homogeneous or heterogeneous. It can
be in gaseous, liquid or solid state. A system is said to be in equilibrium when its
properties do not change with time. The state of a system is described using its
composition, temperature and pressure.
Three types of systems can be distinguished according to the exchange between
the system and the surroundings in terms of matter and/ or energy.
1. An open system is a system that can exchange both matter and energy with the
surroundings (Figure 18.1).
lid prevents the exchange of matter between the system and the surroundings. An
isolated system is a system which is both sealed and insulated. It can exchange
neither matter nor energy with its surroundings.
Examples
Hot coffee in a thermos flask (Figure 18.3).The latter is a closed system. The outer
surface is insulated and thus neither heat nor matter transfer take place between
the system and the surrounding.
2. Indicate the direction of heat (from one compartment to another) and explain
your answer for the following phenomenon
a) When you touch water in a saucepan on top of a stove with your hand and you
fill it is warm
b) When you touch water from the tap with your hand and you fill it is cold
c) When you mix cold water and warm water
18.2.1. Internal energy
The first Law of Thermodynamics deals with energy that is transferred between a
given system and its surroundings in form of heat. The exchange of energy is related
to the energy that is stored in the system called internal energy E. The internal
energy is the sum of the kinetic and potential energies of the particles that form a
system.
18.2.2. Heat energy and temperature
The heat or thermal energy of an object is the total energy of all the molecular
motion inside that object. When two bodies are in contact, heat always flows from
the object with the higher temperature to that of lower temperature. Heat transfer
ceases when a thermal equilibrium is attained. The heat content of a body will
depend on its temperature, its mass, and the material it is made of. Because heat is a
form of energy, it is measured in Joules (J) or kilojoules (kJ) or calorie (cal). A calorie
is defined as the amount of energy needed to raise the temperature of one gram of
water by one degree Celsius.
1 calorie (cal) = 4186 joules (J); 1000 cal = 1 kcal = 4.186 kJ.
The temperature is a measure of the average heat energy (thermal energy) of the
molecules in a substance. When an object has a temperature of 100 °C, for example,
it does not mean that every single molecule has that exact thermal energy. In any
substance, molecules are moving with a range of energies, and interacting with
each other. The temperature is a physical measure expressing how an object is hot
or cold.The temperature is measured using a variety of temperature scales. The most
commonly used are degree Celsius (°C) and degree Kelvin (K):
K = °C + 273
N.B: In thermodynamic calculation, degree Kelvin, not degree celcius, is used.
First Law of Thermodynamics
Thermodynamics is part of physical chemistry that deals with the relationships
between heat and other forms of energy. In particular, it describes how thermal
energy is converted to and from other forms of energy and how it affects matter.
The first Law of thermodynamics is a statement about conservation of energy and it
categorizes the method of energy transfer into two basic forms: work (W) and heat
(Q). The First Law of Thermodynamics states that energy can be converted from
one form to another with the interaction of heat, work and internal energy,
but it cannot be created or destroyed, under any circumstances. Internal energy
refers to all the energies within a given system, including the kinetic energy of
molecules and the energy stored in all of the chemical bonds between molecules.
For a closed system (without mass input and output), the internal energy is the sum
of the heat energy and the work done by the system or the surroundings
∆U = Q + W
Where W is the energy transferred to the system by doing work and Q is the energy
transferred to it by heating.
The work done by the system on the surroundings is negative. Therefore, the first
law of Thermodynamics is written as:
ΔU = Q – W
Work (W) is also equal to the negative external pressure on the system multiplied by
the change in volume. It can be expressed as:
W = −P∆V
Where P is the external pressure on the system, and ΔV is the change in volume.
This is specifically called pressure-volume work. Therefore, the Fist Law of
Thermodynamics is expressed using equation:
ΔU = Q -P∆V
Glasses P and Q have the same amount of water. Glasses R and S have the same
amount of water.
The water in Glasses P and R are at the same temperature. The water in Glasses Q
and S are at the same temperature.
1. Fill in the blanks below with the correct answers.
a. The water in Glass……..has the most heat.
b. The water in Glass……..has the least heat.
2. Ari touched a metal spoon. The metal spoon felt cold. Choose the best answer.
a. Heat flows from hand to spoon
b. Heat flows from spoon to hand
c. Heat does not flow
d. Heat flows in both directions
3. Tom placed a metal spoon in a mug of hot coffee as shown below. The metal
spoon got hot. Choose the best answer
a. Heat flows from hand to spoon
b. Heat flows from spoon to hand
c. Heat does not flow
d. Heat flows in both directions
4. Complete the statement below.
If two objects are near each other and one object is hotter than the other, then
heat will flow from the …………………….object to the…………………..
object.
5. Complete the crossword puzzle using the clues given below.
Down
1. Our sense of ………………….cannot measure temperature accurately.
3. Wood is a …………………….conductor of heat.
4. Heat is a form of ………………………..
6. ………………………….is a measure of how hot or cold an object is.
10. Metals can ………………………………when heated.
Across
2. Heat is used to …………………………… food.
5. When two objects of different temperatures are in contact, heat will travel from
the ………… object to the other object.
6. What does the first law of thermodynamics have to do with systems?
7. The instrument used to measure temperature accurately is a
……………………………..
8. Temperature is measured in the unit ……………………….Celsius (°C).
9. A……………, when used with a temperature sensor, can be used to measure
and record temperatures.
10. The Sun is an important ………………………….of heat.
11. A hotter object will has a ……………………….temperature.
12. A gas is compressed and during this process the surroundings does 462 J of
work on the gas. At the same time, the gas loses 128 J of energy to the surroundings
as heat. What is the change in the internal energy of the gas?18.3. Standard Enthalpy changes
Activity 18.3
1. What is meant by standard conditions of temperature and pressure?2. Which term describes the sum of kinetic energy and potential energy?
The standard enthalpy of Hydration also called Standard enthalpy of solvation
is the amount of heat released when one mole of isolated gaseous ions dissolve in
water forming one mole of aqueous ions under standard conditions. The positive
terminal of the water molecule is attracted to the anion while its negative terminal
is attracted to the cation. This is an ion-dipolar attraction which is typically anelectrostatic interaction. This latter is accompanied by the release of heat energy.
1. Discuss the type of energy form present in points A, B and C of the pathway
followed by the vehicle.
2. Discuss how each form of energy changes from point A to point C.
3. Which points corresponds to maximum stability and minimum stability,
respectively? Relate your answer to energy concept.
When a chemical reaction happens, the energy is transferred to or from the
surroundings and often there is a temperature change. For example, when a bonfire
burns, it transfers the heat energy to the surroundings. The objects near the bonfire
become warmer and the temperature rise can be measured with a thermometer.
There are some chemical reactions that must absorb energy in order to proceed.
These are endothermic reactions. Some other chemical reactions release energy to
the surroundings. The energy released can take the form of heat, light, or sound.
These are exothermic reactions.
1. Exothermic reactions
They are characterized by an increase in the temperature of the surroundings, i.e.
energy is given up. Heat is lost to the surroundings and by convention it is negative
and represented as: ΔH < 0
For exothermic reaction (Figure 18.8), total energy of the reactants is higher than in
the product, because the heat energy absorbed during bond breaking is lower thanthe heat energy released during bond formation.
2. Endothermic reactions
These are reactions that take place by absorbing the energy from the
surroundings. The energy is usually transferred as heat energy; in this case the
surroundings loses energy to the reactants causing the surroundings to get colder.
Endothermic reactions cannot occur spontaneously. Work must be done in order
to get these reactions to occur. When endothermic reactions absorb energy, a
temperature drop in the surroundings is observed during the reaction. Endothermic
reactions are characterized by positive heat flow (into the reaction) and an increase
in enthalpy, by convention it is represented by: ΔH > 0
For endothermic reaction (Figure 18.9), the total energy of the reactants is lower
than the product, because the heat energy absorbed during bond breaking is higher
than the heat energy released during bond formation.
You have certainly experienced this effect when you put a drop of methanol or any
other volatile substance on your skin; you feel cold because that part of your skin issupplying energy to evaporate the volatile liquid
3. Activation energy, Ea
The activation energy is the minimum energy required for a chemical reaction to
take place. It is the energy barrier that has to be overcome for a reaction to proceed.
Without that minimum energy, the reaction will not take place. That is why, for
example, the only fact that a dry wood is in contact with oxygen of air will not
start burning; there is a need of supplying the minimum energy to overcome the
activation energy barrier, this is done by using a burning match.
4. Activated complex
The activated complex is the intermedicate species, where former chemical bonds
are being broken, whereas new chemical bonds are being formed. In term of energy,it corresponds to the activation energy.
5. Determine the activation energy for the reverse reaction.
6. Determine the enthalpy change of reaction for the forward reaction.
7. Determine the enthalpy change of reaction for the reverse reaction.
8. Fill in using exothermic or endothermic.
a. The forward reaction is ……………………..
b. The reverse reaction is ………………………
9. Which chemical species or set of chemical species represent the activated
complex?
10. Which one of the chemical bonds A-X and M-X is stronger? Explain.
11. State the chemical species whose particles move the fastest. Explain your
answer.
12. State the chemical species whose particles move the slowest. Explain your
answer.
13. The compound AX and the element M are in gaseous and solid states,
respectively.
What effect would grinding M into a fine powder have on this energy profilediagram?
18.5. End unit Assessment
Regarding the absorption or release of energy, what is the nature of the
overallreaction?
b. What is the activation energy for the forward reaction?
c. What is the activation energy for the reverse reaction?
d. Determine the enthalpy change of reaction for the forward reaction?
e. Is the reverse reaction endothermic or exothermic?
f. Which chemical species constitute the activated complex?
g. Which chemical species or set of chemical species have the maximum potential
energy?
h. Which chemical species or set of chemical species have the maximum kineticenergy?
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