Chapter U1, Problem C2.4RE

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The element which can be used as a light bulb filament is to be selected and explained.

Concept introduction:

A light bulb filament must be made of a material that can conduct electricity. Metals are good conductors of electricity while nonmetals are bad conductors of electricity. The position of an element on the periodic table can provide lot of information about the element.

Answer to Problem C2.4RE

Correct answer:

A.Tungsten, W

Explanation of Solution

Reason for correct option:

A.Tungsten, W- Tungsten is placed in group 6, period 6 of the periodic table. It is a metal so it is a good conductor of electricity. It can be easily used to make filament for light bulb. It can be easily drawn into wires. It is not a very reactive metal. Hence this is a correct option.

Conclusion

Reasons for incorrect options:

B. sulfur, S- Sulfur belongs to the group of nonmetals. It is placed in group 16. It is not a good conductor of electricity, so it cannot be used to make light bulb filament. Hence, this option is not correct.

C. bromine, Br - Bromine belongs to the group of halogens. It is placed in group 17 so it is a nonmetal liquid. Hence it cannot be used to make light bulb filament. Also it is not a conductor of electricity. Hence, this option is not correct.