Textbook Question
Select the group 4A element that best fits each of the following descriptions.
(c) Is the second most abundant element in the human body
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Ch.22 - The Main Group Elements
Chapter 22, Problem 98
How do the structures and properties of elemental silicon and germanium differ from those of tin and lead?
Verified step by step guidance1
Step 1: Understand the position of silicon, germanium, tin, and lead in the periodic table. Silicon (Si) and germanium (Ge) are in Group 14 and are metalloids, while tin (Sn) and lead (Pb) are also in Group 14 but are metals.
Step 2: Examine the crystal structures. Silicon and germanium both crystallize in a diamond cubic structure, which is a characteristic of covalent network solids. Tin and lead, on the other hand, have metallic structures; tin can exist in two forms: white tin (metallic) and gray tin (similar to silicon and germanium). Lead has a face-centered cubic structure.
Step 3: Compare the bonding and electronic properties. Silicon and germanium have strong covalent bonds due to their tetrahedral bonding, leading to high melting points and semiconducting properties. Tin and lead, being metals, have metallic bonds, which allow for electrical conductivity and malleability.
Step 4: Discuss the physical properties. Silicon and germanium are brittle and have high melting points due to their covalent network structures. Tin and lead are softer, more malleable, and have lower melting points due to their metallic bonding.
Step 5: Consider the applications and implications of these properties. Silicon and germanium are used in semiconductors and electronic devices due to their semiconducting properties. Tin is used in alloys and coatings, while lead is used in batteries and radiation shielding, reflecting their metallic nature.
Related Practice
Open Question
What is the shape of each of the following molecules or ions, and which hybrid orbitals are used by the central atom? (a) SiO₄⁴⁻ (b) CCl₄ (c) SnCl₂ (d) HCN
Open Question
Describe the preparation of silicon from silica sand, and explain how silicon is purified for use in semiconductor devices. Write balanced equations for all reactions.
Textbook Question
Write balanced equations for the formation of the following compounds from their elements.
(c) Uranium hexafluoride (a solid at 25 °C)
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Open Question
The organ pipes in unheated northern European churches are often observed to be pitted and crumbling to powder in places. Suggest an explanation, given that the pipes are made from tin.
Open Question
Identify the group 5A element(s) that best fit each of the following descriptions: (a) Makes up part of bones and teeth, (c) Is the most abundant element in the atmosphere, (d) Forms a basic oxide.