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group

Primary Information
Secondary Information

Definition

A group is a collection of elements that share certain properties. For example, the group of elements called alkali metals all have a single valence electron and are very reactive.

Groups are an important part of the periodic table, and they can be used to organize the elements in a way that makes sense.

The properties of the elements in a group are often similar because they have the same number of valence electrons. This means that they react in similar ways and have similar chemical properties.

Groups can also be used to predict the properties of new elements. For example, if we know the properties of the other elements in a group, we can make a good guess about the properties of a new element that is added to the group.

How can the word be used?

Groups can be formed based on a variety of factors, including shared interests, common goals, or geographic proximity.

group

Different forms of the word

Noun: group.

Adjective: grouped.

Verb: to group.

Synonym: cluster, set, collection.

Etymology

The word "group" comes from the Old French word "grupe", which means "heap" or "cluster". The Old French word is thought to be derived from the Latin word "grupus", which also means "heap" or "cluster".

Question

Why might something be placed into a group?

AQA Science Exam Question and Answer

Question:

What is a group in chemistry?

Answer:

In chemistry, a group is a vertical column of elements in the periodic table. Elements in the same group have similar chemical properties because they have the same number of valence electrons.

The periodic table is a chart that organises elements by their atomic number, electron configuration, and chemical properties. The elements are arranged in rows, called periods, and columns, called groups.

The elements in each group have the same number of valence electrons. Valence electrons are the electrons that are located in the outermost shell of an atom. The number of valence electrons determines the chemical properties of an element.

Elements in the same group have similar chemical properties because they have the same number of valence electrons. For example, all of the elements in group 1, known as the alkali metals, have one valence electron. This means that they are all very reactive and form cations easily.

Here are some additional points that could be included in the answer:

  • There are 18 groups in the periodic table.
  • The elements in each group are arranged in order of increasing atomic number.
  • The elements in each group have similar chemical properties, but their physical properties can vary widely.
  • The elements in a group are often referred to by their group number. For example, the elements in group 1 are called the alkali metals.
  • The elements in a group can be used to make a variety of compounds.