Silicon
sodium
nitrogen
potassium
Use the periodic table to predict which element is nonmetallic AND a gas at room temperature.
A) nitrogen
B) potassium
C.)silicon
D) sodium
The Correct answer and Explanation is:
The correct answer is A) nitrogen.
Explanation
To determine which element among silicon, sodium, nitrogen, and potassium is nonmetallic and gaseous at room temperature, we must first classify each of these elements based on their position in the periodic table and their properties.
- Nitrogen (N): Nitrogen is located in Group 15 (or Group VA) of the periodic table. It is a nonmetal and is found in the gaseous state at room temperature, existing as diatomic molecules (N₂) in the atmosphere. Nitrogen comprises about 78% of the Earth’s atmosphere and is essential for biological processes, such as the synthesis of amino acids and nucleotides.
- Silicon (Si): Silicon is a metalloid located in Group 14 (or Group IVA). It possesses both metallic and nonmetallic properties but is primarily considered a metalloid. Silicon is solid at room temperature and is widely used in semiconductor technology and electronics.
- Sodium (Na): Sodium is an alkali metal found in Group 1 (or Group IA) of the periodic table. It is a highly reactive metal, typically existing as a solid at room temperature. Sodium reacts vigorously with water and is commonly found in nature as part of compounds like sodium chloride (table salt).
- Potassium (K): Potassium is another alkali metal located in Group 1 (or Group IA). Similar to sodium, potassium is also a solid at room temperature and is highly reactive, especially with water. It is vital for biological functions, including nerve transmission and muscle contraction, but does not exhibit nonmetallic characteristics.
In summary, among the four elements listed, nitrogen is the only element that is both nonmetallic and a gas at room temperature. Its gaseous state and nonmetallic nature distinguish it from silicon, sodium, and potassium, all of which are either solid or metallic.