The reactivity of elements increases as you move down a group in the periodic table due to the increase in atomic radius and the effect of electron shielding. As atomic radius increases, the outer electrons are held less tightly by the nucleus, making them more available for chemical reactions. This trend is particularly evident when comparing halogens, such as iodine and fluorine, where iodine exhibits higher reactivity due to its larger atomic size and reduced effective nuclear charge on its outer electrons.
PREREQUISITESChemistry students, educators, and anyone interested in understanding periodic trends and chemical reactivity in elements.
plexus0208 said:Because as you go down a group, electrons are held less tightly (less shielding), and since reactions result from the transfer of electrons, reactivity will increase.
plexus0208 said:Because as you go down a group, electrons are held less tightly (less shielding), and since reactions result from the transfer of electrons, reactivity will increase.