Write the group number and draw the Lewis symbol for each of the following elements:c. calcium

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the element calcium on the periodic table. Calcium is located in Group 2.
2. Recognize that elements in Group 2 are known as alkaline earth metals and have two valence electrons.
3. To draw the Lewis symbol for calcium, start by writing the chemical symbol 'Ca'.
4. Place two dots around the symbol 'Ca' to represent the two valence electrons. These dots can be placed on any side of the symbol, but they should be paired to indicate the two electrons.
5. Review the Lewis symbol to ensure it accurately represents calcium with its two valence electrons.

Key Concepts

Lewis Symbols

Lewis symbols, or Lewis dot diagrams, represent the valence electrons of an atom as dots around the element's chemical symbol. This visual representation helps in understanding how atoms bond with each other, as it shows the number of electrons available for bonding. For example, the Lewis symbol for calcium (Ca) will have two dots, indicating its two valence electrons.

Group Number in the Periodic Table

The group number in the periodic table indicates the number of valence electrons in the outermost shell of an element. Elements in the same group share similar chemical properties due to this commonality in valence electron configuration. Calcium is located in Group 2, which means it has two valence electrons that it can lose to form bonds.

Valence Electrons

Valence electrons are the electrons in the outermost shell of an atom and are crucial for chemical bonding. The number of valence electrons determines how an element interacts with others, including its ability to gain, lose, or share electrons. In the case of calcium, having two valence electrons allows it to readily form ionic bonds, particularly with nonmetals.