Question

Write the name of the element for each of the following chemical symbols: (a) P (b) S (c) $\mathrm{Kr}$ (d) Fe (e) Sb (f) $\mathrm{N}$ (g) $Pt$ (h) $\mathrm{Ag}$

Short answer

(a) Phosphorus, (b) Sulfur, (c) Krypton, (d) Iron, (e) Antimony, (f) Nitrogen, (g) Platinum, (h) Silver.

Step-by-step solution

Identify Element for (a) P

The symbol 'P' corresponds to the element Phosphorus. This element is located in group 15 of the periodic table.

Identify Element for (b) S

The symbol 'S' corresponds to the element Sulfur. Sulfur is situated in group 16 of the periodic table.

Identify Element for (c) Kr

The symbol 'Kr' stands for the element Krypton. Krypton is a noble gas found in group 18.

Identify Element for (d) Fe

The symbol 'Fe' is for the element Iron. Iron is a transition metal found in group 8.

Identify Element for (e) Sb

The symbol 'Sb' is the abbreviation for Antimony. Antimony is found in group 15 of the periodic table.

Identify Element for (f) N

The symbol 'N' is for the element Nitrogen. It is located in group 15 of the periodic table.

Identify Element for (g) Pt

The symbol 'Pt' stands for the element Platinum. Platinum is a transition metal found in group 10.

Identify Element for (h) Ag

The symbol 'Ag' denotes the element Silver. Silver is a transition metal found in group 11.

Key concepts

Periodic Table

The Periodic Table is like a map for the elements. It organizes all known chemical elements based on their atomic number, electron configurations, and recurring chemical properties. This layout helps to understand and predict the behaviors and interactions of elements. Each element is placed in a specific group (column) and period (row), which gives a lot of information about that element's characteristics.

• Groups: Vertical columns in the periodic table. Elements in the same group often have similar properties because they have the same number of electrons in their outer shell. For example, all elements in group 18 are noble gases, which are known for their lack of reactivity.
• Periods: Horizontal rows where elements have the same number of atomic orbitals. Moving across a period from left to right, the atomic number of elements increases.

The Periodic Table is a fundamental tool for chemists, routinely used to predict the possible results of chemical reactions and understand the properties of elements.

Element Identification

Identifying chemical elements from their symbols is an essential skill for anyone studying chemistry. Each chemical element is given a unique one or two-letter symbol, often derived from its English or Latin name. These symbols serve as a shorthand notation to denote the elements in chemical equations.

It’s important to become familiar with these symbols, as they are universally used in science. Here are some tips for identifying elements:

• Use the Periodic Table: You can find the element's symbol and locate it on the periodic table, which can help you to understand its properties and how it might interact with other elements.
• Learn Common Symbols: Some common symbols are derived from Latin, such as "Fe" for iron (ferrum) and "Ag" for silver (argentum).
• Practice: Regular practice is key. Try quizzing yourself or using flashcards to improve your recognition of element symbols.

Chemical Elements

Chemical elements are the building blocks of everything in the universe. Each element consists of atoms with the same number of protons in their nucleus. The number of protons, referred to as the atomic number, is unique to each element and determines its identity.

Understanding chemical elements is crucial for different scientific disciplines because each element has distinct properties that make it useful for specific purposes. For instance:

• Iron (Fe): Known for its strength and ability to form alloys, iron is essential for construction and manufacturing.
• Phosphorus (P): Vital for life, phosphorus plays a critical role in the formation of DNA and ATP, the energy currency of cells.
• Nitrogen (N): Comprising around 78% of the Earth's atmosphere, nitrogen is crucial for the production of amino acids and proteins.

The study of chemical elements illuminates the composition, structure, and changes in matter, providing a deeper understanding of the natural world.