What is the group number and number of valence electrons for each of the following elements?
e. barium

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the position of barium on the periodic table. Barium (Ba) is located in Group 2, also known as the alkaline earth metals.
2. Understand that the group number corresponds to the number of valence electrons for elements in Groups 1 and 2. Since barium is in Group 2, it has 2 valence electrons.
3. Recall that valence electrons are the electrons in the outermost energy level of an atom. For barium, these electrons are in the 6s orbital.
4. Note that the number of valence electrons determines the chemical reactivity and bonding behavior of the element. Barium, with 2 valence electrons, tends to lose these electrons to form a +2 ion in chemical reactions.
5. Summarize: Barium is in Group 2 of the periodic table and has 2 valence electrons.

Key Concepts

Group Number

The group number in the periodic table indicates the column in which an element is located. Elements in the same group share similar chemical properties and have the same number of valence electrons. For example, barium is located in Group 2, which means it is an alkaline earth metal.

Valence Electrons

Valence electrons are the electrons in the outermost shell of an atom that are involved in chemical bonding. The number of valence electrons determines how an element interacts with others. Barium, being in Group 2, has two valence electrons, which influences its reactivity and bonding behavior.

Periodic Table

The periodic table is a systematic arrangement of elements based on their atomic number, electron configuration, and recurring chemical properties. It provides essential information about the elements, including their group numbers and valence electrons. Understanding the layout of the periodic table is crucial for predicting the behavior of elements like barium.