Identify the group number in the periodic table of X, a representative element, in each of the following ionic compounds: (6.2) a. XCl₃

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the charge of the chloride ion (Cl⁻), which is -1.
2. Determine the total negative charge contributed by the chloride ions in XCl₃. Since there are three chloride ions, the total negative charge is 3(-1) = -3.
3. To balance the charges in the compound, the positive charge of X must be +3.
4. Since X is a representative element, its group number can be determined by its positive charge. Elements in Group 13 typically form +3 ions.
5. Conclude that the element X is likely in Group 13 of the periodic table.

Key Concepts

Representative Elements

Representative elements are found in groups 1, 2, and 13-18 of the periodic table. They are characterized by their ability to form a wide variety of compounds and exhibit predictable properties based on their group. Understanding these elements is crucial for predicting the behavior of ionic compounds, such as XCl₃, where X represents a representative element.

Ionic Compounds

Ionic compounds are formed when atoms transfer electrons, resulting in the formation of positively charged cations and negatively charged anions. In the case of XCl₃, X is a cation derived from the representative element, while Cl is a chloride anion. The ratio of these ions in the compound reflects the charges of the ions, which is essential for determining the group number of X.

Periodic Table Group Number

The group number in the periodic table indicates the number of valence electrons in the outer shell of an element. For representative elements, this directly influences their ionic charge when forming compounds. By analyzing the ionic compound XCl₃, one can deduce the group number of X based on the charge of the chloride ion (Cl⁻) and the overall neutrality of the compound.