Question 1

What are the elements in Group 7 of the Periodic Table?

Accepted Answer

Group 7 of the Periodic Table, also known as the halogens, includes the elements fluorine (F), chlorine (Cl), bromine (Br), iodine (I), and astatine (At). These elements are known for their high reactivity and are non-metals. Understanding these elements is crucial for the Edexcel GCSE Chemistry curriculum.

Question 2

Why are Group 7 elements called halogens?

Accepted Answer

The term 'halogen' comes from Greek, meaning 'salt-former.' Group 7 elements are called halogens because they readily react with metals to form salts. For example, sodium chloride (table salt) is formed when chlorine reacts with sodium. This property is a key focus in the Edexcel GCSE Chemistry syllabus.

Question 3

How does reactivity change as you move down Group 7?

Accepted Answer

In Group 7, reactivity decreases as you move down the group from fluorine to astatine. This is because the outer electrons are further from the nucleus and more shielded by inner electron shells, making it harder for the atom to attract additional electrons. This trend is an important concept in the Edexcel GCSE Chemistry curriculum.

Question 4

What are the physical states of Group 7 elements at room temperature?

Accepted Answer

At room temperature, the physical states of Group 7 elements vary: fluorine is a pale yellow gas, chlorine is a greenish gas, bromine is a red-brown liquid, and iodine is a dark grey solid. Astatine is rare and radioactive, but it is expected to be a solid. These differences are significant for understanding periodic trends in Edexcel GCSE Chemistry.

Question 5

How do Group 7 elements form compounds with metals?

Accepted Answer

Group 7 elements form ionic compounds with metals by gaining one electron to achieve a stable electronic configuration. For example, when chlorine reacts with sodium, it gains an electron from sodium to form sodium chloride (NaCl). This process of forming ionic bonds is a fundamental concept in the Edexcel GCSE Chemistry syllabus.

Group 7

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