Why Does Reactivity Differ in Group 7?

In summary, the reactivity of elements in Group 7, known as the halogens, varies primarily due to their atomic structure and electronegativity. As you move down the group from fluorine to iodine, the atomic size increases, leading to a greater distance between the nucleus and the valence electrons. This results in a decrease in electronegativity and reactivity. Fluorine, being the most electronegative and smallest halogen, is the most reactive, while iodine is the least reactive due to its larger atomic size and lower electronegativity. Thus, the differences in reactivity can be attributed to atomic size, shielding effect, and the ability to attract electrons.
  • #1
Biele
1
0
TL;DR Summary
why does group 7 go down in reactivity even though electron shielding still increases further down the group which is the same as the other groups
ik this is basic knowledge, that all groups go up in reactivity the further down you go in the group, except for group 7, where this is reversed.

however i don't understand why, because in group 7, the electron shielding still increases the further down the group you go, like with all the other groups and usually more electron shielding = increased reactivity. so can someone explain why this is different in group 7? sorry I'm really trying to understand chemistry as best I can.
 
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  • #2
What is meant by “reactivity”?
 
  • #3
Which groups react by gaining an electron and which react by loosing an electron?
Then ask yourself:
Will it be easier or harder as you go down a group to do this?
 

FAQ: Why Does Reactivity Differ in Group 7?

Why do elements in the same group exhibit similar reactivity?

Elements in the same group have the same number of valence electrons, which determines their reactivity. Since they have similar electron configurations, they tend to react in similar ways.

How does reactivity vary across different groups in the periodic table?

Reactivity tends to decrease as you move from left to right across a period and increase as you move down a group in the periodic table. This is because elements in the same group have the same number of valence electrons.

Why are alkali metals so reactive?

Alkali metals are so reactive because they have only one valence electron, which they readily lose to achieve a stable electron configuration. This makes them highly reactive with other elements.

Why are noble gases so unreactive?

Noble gases are unreactive because they have a full outer shell of electrons, making them very stable. They do not readily gain or lose electrons, which is why they are often referred to as inert gases.

How does the reactivity of halogens compare to other groups?

Halogens are highly reactive nonmetals that readily gain an electron to achieve a full outer shell. They are more reactive than noble gases but less reactive than alkali metals due to their electron configuration.

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