Use the periodic table in the tools bar to answer the following questions. What elemental classification does oxygen belong to?
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
Oxygen belongs to the nonmetals elemental classification.
Explanation:
Oxygen (symbol O) is a chemical element with atomic number 8. It is located in Group 16, also known as the chalcogens, and is part of Period 2 on the periodic table. Oxygen is classified as a nonmetal due to its physical and chemical properties, which include:
- Non-metallic Physical Properties:
Oxygen exists as a diatomic gas ((O_2)) at standard temperature and pressure. It is colorless, odorless, and tasteless. Nonmetals typically have low melting and boiling points compared to metals, and oxygen is no exception, boiling at -183°C and melting at -218°C. - High Electronegativity:
Oxygen has a high electronegativity value of 3.44 on the Pauling scale, which is characteristic of nonmetals. This means oxygen strongly attracts electrons during chemical bonding. - Poor Conductivity:
Oxygen is not a good conductor of heat or electricity, a defining trait of nonmetals. Metals, in contrast, are excellent conductors. - Chemical Reactivity:
Oxygen readily forms covalent bonds with other elements. It combines with hydrogen to form water ((H_2O)) and with carbon to form carbon dioxide ((CO_2)). These are key examples of oxygen’s role as a nonmetal. - Biological and Environmental Role:
Oxygen is essential for life, playing a crucial role in cellular respiration. Its reactivity also makes it a vital part of the Earth’s atmosphere, where it exists as molecular oxygen ((O_2)) and ozone ((O_3)).
In summary, oxygen’s nonmetallic characteristics, including its gaseous state at room temperature, high electronegativity, and ability to form covalent bonds, clearly align it with the nonmetal classification in the periodic table.