Question

Use the periodic table to write the name and the atomic number of the element that corresponds to each of the following symbols:$$ \begin{array}{lllllllllll} \mathrm{H} & \mathrm{He} & \mathrm{Li} & \mathrm{Be} & \mathrm{B} & \mathrm{C} & \mathrm{N} & \mathrm{O} & \mathrm{F} & \mathrm{Ne} & \\ \mathrm{Na} & \mathrm{Mg} & \mathrm{Al} & \mathrm{Si} & \mathrm{P} & \mathrm{S} & \mathrm{Cl} & \mathrm{Ar} & \mathrm{Fe} & \mathrm{Cu} & \mathrm{Br} \\ \mathrm{Kr} & \mathrm{Ag} & \mathrm{I} & \mathrm{Xe} & \mathrm{W} & \mathrm{Au} & \mathrm{Hg} & \mathrm{Pb} & \mathrm{Rn} & \mathrm{U} & \end{array} $$

Short answer

The elements and their corresponding atomic numbers are Hydrogen (H, 1), Helium (He, 2), Lithium (Li, 3), Beryllium (Be, 4), Boron (B, 5), Carbon (C, 6), Nitrogen (N, 7), Oxygen (O, 8), Fluorine (F, 9), Neon (Ne, 10), Sodium (Na, 11), Magnesium (Mg, 12), Aluminum (Al, 13), Silicon (Si, 14), Phosphorus (P, 15), Sulfur (S, 16), Chlorine (Cl, 17), Argon (Ar, 18), Iron (Fe, 26), Copper (Cu, 29), Bromine (Br, 35), Krypton (Kr, 36), Silver (Ag, 47), Iodine (I, 53), Xenon (Xe, 54), Tungsten (W, 74), Gold (Au, 79), Mercury (Hg, 80), Lead (Pb, 82), Radon (Rn, 86), and Uranium (U, 92).

Step-by-step solution

Identify the Symbols

The first step is to identify each symbol given and match it with its corresponding element on the periodic table.

Write Down the Element Names

Consult the periodic table and write down the names of the elements that corresponds to each symbol.

Find the Atomic Number

Using the periodic table, find the atomic number associated with each element and write it down alongside the element’s name.

List the Elements and Their Atomic Numbers

Make a list of elements alongside with their atomic numbers in descending order, starting from Hydrogen (H) with atomic number 1, to Uranium (U) with atomic number 92.

Key concepts

Chemical Symbols

Understanding chemical symbols is a fundamental aspect of chemistry that allows for efficient communication and identification of elements. Chemical symbols are unique one or two-letter abbreviations assigned to each element. For instance, the symbol H represents Hydrogen, while O stands for Oxygen.

To interpret these symbols accurately, it's essential to familiarize oneself with the periodic table where these symbols are standardized. Most symbols are derived from the element's English name, like Carbon for C, but some are based on their Latin or Greek names, like Sodium for Na (from natrium) or Potassium for K (from kalium).

When writing chemical formulas or equations, these symbols serve as concise building blocks, making it easier to depict substances and reactions without writing full element names.

Atomic Number

The atomic number is a critical value in the characterisation of elements. It signifies the number of protons in the nucleus of an atom, which uniquely identifies an element. For example, any atom with exactly 1 proton is a Hydrogen atom and is assigned the atomic number 1.

The atomic number not only helps in distinguishing one element from another but also determines the element's position in the periodic table. Elements in the periodic table are arranged in increasing order of their atomic numbers, starting with Hydrogen, which makes the foundation for this organized table.

It's worth noting that the atomic number also corresponds to the number of electrons in a neutral atom. This association assists in predicting the chemical behavior of an element, including its bonding and reactivity.

Element Names

Element names provide a universal language for scientists around the world. These names often reflect an aspect of the element, whether it be a physical property, its discoverer, or geographical location. For example, Oxygen comes from Greek words meaning 'acid-former', indicative of its role in combustion reactions.

Acquainting oneself with element names is not just about memorization; it also involves understanding the history and origin of these names. While names like Gold (Au) have ancient roots, others such as Einsteinium honor famous individuals. Learning these names enriches one's knowledge, aiding in the comprehension of not only chemistry but also historical and cultural contexts linked to the elements.

Periodic Table Organization

The periodic table is an iconic tool in the field of chemistry, ingeniously organizing all known elements in an informative and structured manner. It arranges elements in rows, called periods, and columns, known as groups or families, based on increasing atomic number and similar properties.

Elements in the same group typically exhibit alike chemical and physical characteristics due to having the same number of valence electrons. For instance, Fluorine (F), Chlorine (Cl), and Bromine (Br) all belong to the halogen group and share similar reactivity.

Additionally, the table is divided into blocks, such as the s-, p-, d-, and f-blocks, which are indicative of the subshell in which the outermost electrons reside. This organization helps predict how an element might react chemically or what compounds it might form. Mastering the periodic table's layout is crucial for understanding the properties and interactions of elements.