Groups

Definition

In the context of chemistry, groups refer to columns in the periodic table. Elements within these groups share similar chemical behaviors because they have the same number of valence electrons.

Related terms

Valence Electrons:

These are electrons located on an atom's outermost shell and participate in bond formation with other atoms. They're like hands reaching out from one atom to another for bonding!

Alkali Metals: This is Group 1 on the Periodic Table (excluding Hydrogen). Alkali metals are very reactive due to having only one valence electron which they readily give up to achieve a stable electron configuration.

Halogens: This is Group 17 on the Periodic Table. Halogens are highly reactive and often exist in nature as compounds rather than pure elements.