Multiple Choice
How are the elements organized on the periodic table?
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2. Atoms & Elements
Periodic Table: Classifications
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Which elemental classification does oxygen belong to on the periodic table?
A
Nonmetal
B
Transition metal
C
Alkali metal
D
Noble gas
Verified step by step guidance1
Recall that the periodic table classifies elements into categories such as metals, nonmetals, and metalloids based on their properties.
Identify the position of oxygen on the periodic table: oxygen is located in group 16 (the chalcogens) and period 2.
Understand the general properties of oxygen: it is a poor conductor of heat and electricity, has high electronegativity, and tends to gain electrons in reactions.
Compare these properties with the characteristics of the elemental classifications: transition metals are typically good conductors and found in the d-block; alkali metals are highly reactive metals in group 1; noble gases are inert gases in group 18.
Conclude that oxygen fits the properties of a nonmetal because it is a nonmetallic element with high electronegativity and is not a metal or noble gas.
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