How do the following change on moving from top to bottom in a group?? ...
Changes on Moving from Top to Bottom in a Group
1. Number of Valence Electrons
The number of valence electrons increases on moving from top to bottom in a group. Valence electrons are the electrons present in the outermost shell of an atom and are involved in chemical bonding. As we move down the group, an additional shell is added, which results in an increase in the number of valence electrons. Therefore, elements in the same group have similar chemical properties due to the same number of valence electrons.
2. Number of Occupied Shells
The number of occupied shells increases on moving from top to bottom in a group. The occupied shell is the shell in which electrons are present. As we move down the group, the number of shells increases due to the addition of energy levels, resulting in an increase in the number of occupied shells.
3. Size of Atoms
The size of atoms increases on moving from top to bottom in a group. The atomic size is the distance between the outermost electron shell and the nucleus of an atom. As we move down the group, the number of shells increases, and the distance between the outermost shell and the nucleus increases. As a result, the atomic size increases.
4. Effective Nuclear Charge Experienced By
The effective nuclear charge experienced by an atom decreases on moving from top to bottom in a group. The effective nuclear charge is the net positive charge experienced by the outermost electrons in an atom. As we move down the group, the number of shells increases, and the outermost electrons are farther away from the nucleus. Hence, the attraction between the outermost electrons and the nucleus decreases, resulting in a decrease in the effective nuclear charge.