Textbook Question
Identify the elements that have molecules as their basic units. a. nitrogen b. argon c. hydrogen d. helium
2. Atoms & Elements
Periodic Table: Elemental Forms
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Which of the following elements does NOT exist as a diatomic molecule in its standard elemental form?
A
Helium (He)
B
Oxygen (O_2)
C
Chlorine (Cl_2)
D
Nitrogen (N_2)
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand that diatomic molecules are molecules composed of two atoms of the same element bonded together. Common diatomic molecules in their elemental form include O\_2, N\_2, and Cl\_2.
Recall that elements in the noble gas group, such as Helium (He), exist as monatomic gases under standard conditions, meaning they do not naturally form diatomic molecules.
Review the list of elements given: Oxygen (O\_2), Chlorine (Cl\_2), Nitrogen (N\_2), and Helium (He). Identify which are known diatomic molecules and which are not.
Recognize that Oxygen, Chlorine, and Nitrogen all exist naturally as diatomic molecules (O\_2, Cl\_2, N\_2), while Helium exists as single atoms (He).
Conclude that Helium (He) does NOT exist as a diatomic molecule in its standard elemental form.
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