Chemistry 9701 · AS & A Level · The Periodic Table: chemical periodicity

The Periodic Table: chemical periodicity — practice question

Nuclei that contain an odd number of protons usually have fewer isotopes than nuclei with an even number of protons.
(a(i))[2]

Gallium has two stable isotopes, $^{69}\text{Ga}$ and $^{71}\text{Ga}$. Fill in Table 1.1 to indicate the numbers of protons, neutrons and electrons in gallium’s two stable isotopes.

(a(ii))[2]

Define the term relative atomic mass.

(a(iii))[2]

The relative atomic mass of gallium, $A_r$, is $69.723$. The relative isotopic masses of $^{69}\text{Ga}$ and $^{71}\text{Ga}$ are $68.926$ and $70.925$, respectively. Use this information to calculate the percentage abundance of $^{69}\text{Ga}$ in elemental gallium. Show your working. Assume that the element contains only the $^{69}\text{Ga}$ and $^{71}\text{Ga}$ isotopes. Give your answer to four significant figures.

(b(i))[1]

Potassium has two stable isotopes as well. The two isotopes have identical chemical properties. Explain why the chemical properties are the same for both isotopes of potassium.

(b(ii))[1]

State the complete electronic configuration for an atom of potassium.

(b(iii))[2]

The first, second and third ionisation energies of potassium are $418$, $3070$ and $4600\ \text{kJ mol}^{-1}$, respectively. Use this information to explain why potassium belongs in Group $1$.

Worked solution & mark scheme

This 10-mark question has a full step-by-step worked solution and mark scheme. One marking point: The entries in columns 1 and 3 are the same: $^{69}\text{Ga}$ has 31 protons, 38 neutrons, 31 electrons; $^{71}\text{Ga}$ has 31 protons, 40 neutrons, 31 electrons

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