Chapter U1.9, Problem 2E

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

Whether carbon, C, is more similar to nitrogen, N, O, or silicon, Si is to be explained.

Concept introduction:

A periodic table was developed by scientists to arrange the elements based on the patterns in their properties. Modern periodic table is a storehouse of information about the elements. There are 18 vertical columns called groups and 7 horizontal rows called periods. Each element square contains information such as element name, symbol, atomic number and average atomic mass.

Answer to Problem 2E

Carbon, C, is more similar to silicon, Si.

Explanation of Solution

Given information:

Carbon is an element which has properties similar to few other elements.

Carbon, nitrogen, oxygen and silicon have symbols C, N, O and Si respectively.

In a periodic table, elements are arranged based on the similarities in their physical and chemical properties. The elements are arranged in horizontal periods and vertical groups. Elements that have similar properties are arranged in the same group.

Carbon belongs to the group IV. Other members of this group are silicon (Si), titanium (Ti), tin (Sn), lead (Pb), etc. Nitrogen and oxygen belong to group V.

Therefore, the element that has properties similar to that of carbon is silicon.

Conclusion

Therefore, the element that has properties similar to that of carbon is silicon.

Both carbon and silicon belong to the fourth group in the modern periodic table.