The coinage metals - copper, silver, and gold - are considered to be a chemical family. List three arguments to explain why.
Please help!!
1. They are in the same group in the periodic table.
2. They have similar chemical properties.
3. All three are metals.
4. They have one electron in the outside shell.
and more.
Sure! In order to explain why copper, silver, and gold are considered to be a chemical family, here are three arguments:
1. Similar chemical properties: The first argument is that these elements display similar chemical properties. Copper, silver, and gold are all transition metals located in the same group on the periodic table (Group 11). They have similar electron configurations in their outermost energy level, resulting in comparable reactivity patterns. For example, all three metals can form stable +1 oxidation states and can readily lose electrons to form cations. This similarity in chemical behavior is a characteristic of elements belonging to the same chemical family.
2. Common occurrence and extraction: The second argument is that copper, silver, and gold are often found together in nature and share similar extraction methods. These metals are commonly found as native metals or in sulfide ores, which means they are often found in their pure elemental form or in compounds containing sulfur. The extraction processes for these metals involve similar steps such as crushing the ores, separating the desired metals from impurities, and refining them to their pure form. This shared occurrence and extraction process further supports their classification as a chemical family.
3. Historical and cultural significance: The third argument is their historical and cultural significance in terms of their use as currency. Copper, silver, and gold have played crucial roles in human civilizations as valuable commodities used for trade and currency. They have been used for centuries to mint coins and create jewelry due to their desirable properties such as high malleability, conductivity, and resistance to corrosion. This shared historical and cultural significance reinforces the concept of the coinage metals as a chemical family.
By considering these arguments, it becomes evident why copper, silver, and gold are considered to be a chemical family. Their similar chemical properties, common occurrence and extraction methods, and historical significance as coinage metals contribute to their classification within a distinct chemical group.
Sure! Here are three arguments to explain why copper, silver, and gold are considered to be a chemical family:
1. Similar chemical properties: Copper, silver, and gold have similar chemical properties due to their placement in the same group on the periodic table. They all belong to Group 11, also known as the coinage metals or the copper group. As a result, they exhibit similar characteristics such as excellent electrical conductivity, resistance to corrosion, and malleability.
2. +1 oxidation state: One common characteristic among copper, silver, and gold is their ability to form compounds in the +1 oxidation state. While they can exist in other oxidation states as well, the +1 oxidation state is predominant for these metals, indicating a similar behavior in chemical reactions. This similarity allows them to form similar types of compounds with other elements.
3. Valence electron configuration: The coinage metals, including copper, silver, and gold, have a similar electron configuration in their outermost shell. They all have one electron in their s sublevel, which contributes to their similar chemical behavior. This shared electron configuration influences their reactivity, bonding patterns, and overall chemical properties, making them a recognized chemical family.
Keep in mind that these arguments are focused on the chemical similarities among the coinage metals. Other aspects, such as their historical usage in currency or their physical properties, can also contribute to considering them as a family.