Which of the following best explains how the periodic table is useful to chemists?

• A. It lists all known chemical reactions for each element.
• B. It allows chemists to predict the chemical properties and reactivity of elements based on their position.
• C. It shows the atomic structure of every compound.
• D. It provides detailed instructions for conducting chemical experiments.

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that the periodic table is a systematic arrangement of elements based on their atomic number and recurring chemical properties.
2. Recognize that elements in the same group (vertical columns) have similar chemical properties because they have the same number of valence electrons.
3. Note that the periodic table helps predict how an element will react chemically by looking at its position relative to other elements.
4. Realize that the periodic table does not list chemical reactions, atomic structures of compounds, or experimental instructions; instead, it organizes elements to reveal trends in properties.
5. Conclude that the best explanation is that the periodic table allows chemists to predict chemical properties and reactivity based on an element's position.