Modern periodic table and electron configuration
I can describe the way the modern periodic table is organised and draw the electronic configuration of the first twenty elements.
Modern periodic table and electron configuration
I can describe the way the modern periodic table is organised and draw the electronic configuration of the first twenty elements.
These resources will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- The periodic table is ordered by increasing atomic number (proton number).
- The periodic table is split into periods and groups.
- The position of an element in the periodic table is linked to its atomic number and the arrangement of its electrons.
- Elements can be classed as metals or non-metals according to their position on the periodic table.
- A useful model for atoms arranges electrons in shells around the nucleus.
Keywords
Electron shell - is an energy level outside the nucleus which contains electrons.
Electronic configuration - of an atom of an element describes how the electrons are arranged in shells.
Period - is a horizontal row on the periodic table, it corresponds to the number of shells of an atom in an element that have electrons in them.
Group - is a column on the periodic table that corresponds to the number of electrons in the outer shell of an atom.
Common misconception
Pupils often confuse the atomic number and mass number with regard to the number of electrons in an atom. They also can confuse the number of electrons which can be held by each shell.
Emphasise that the lower number (atomic number/proton number) represents the number of electrons (reference to the mass being larger can help). Practise as many electron arrangements as possible.
Licence
This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2024), licensed on Open Government Licence version 3.0 except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions (Collection 2).
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