What is the periodic law?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The periodic law states that the properties of elements are a periodic function of their atomic numbers. This means that when elements are arranged in order of increasing atomic number, there is a periodic repetition of their properties. This forms the basis for the modern periodic table. Option B describes the organization of elements in the periodic table, which is related to the periodic law but not the definition of it. Options C and D are incorrect as they describe concepts related to atomic structure (atomic number and atomic mass) rather than the periodic law itself.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is Chlorine (Cl). The atomic number of an element corresponds to the number of protons in its nucleus. Chlorine has an atomic number of 17, indicating it has 17 protons. Therefore, the element with atomic number 17 is Chlorine (Cl). Choice B, Nitrogen (N), has an atomic number of 7, Choice C, Sodium (Na), has an atomic number of 11, and Choice D, Fluorine (F), has an atomic number of 9. These elements do not match the atomic number 17, making them incorrect choices.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Elements within the same group share similar electron configurations in their outermost shell. The periodic table is organized based on the number of electrons in the outermost energy level, known as valence electrons, which significantly influence an element's chemical properties. Elements within the same group have the same number of valence electrons, leading to comparable chemical behaviors. Choices A and D are incorrect because elements within the same period, not group, have identical electron configurations, and an element's group is primarily determined by the number of valence electrons and not the number of electron shells. Choice C is incorrect because while electron configuration is crucial for understanding an element's properties, it is not the sole factor determining its position on the periodic table.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Understanding atomic structure is essential for various technological advancements. Designing new materials with tailored properties necessitates knowledge of atomic structure to effectively manipulate their characteristics. Developing advanced electronics and nanotechnology involves working at the atomic level to create smaller, faster, and more efficient devices. Improving nuclear energy production and safety also heavily depends on understanding atomic structure to enhance reactor design and safety measures. Therefore, all the options provided (A, B, and C) are potential applications of understanding atomic structure in modern technology.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct statement is that atomic radius increases down a group and decreases across a period. When moving down a group, additional electron shells increase the distance from the nucleus, leading to larger atomic radii. On the other hand, when moving across a period, the number of electron shells remains constant, but the increasing nuclear charge pulls electrons closer, resulting in smaller radii. Choice B is incorrect because atomic radius does not decrease down a group and increase across a period. Choice C is incorrect because atomic radius does not remain constant; it exhibits specific trends. Choice D is incorrect because atomic radius follows predictable trends based on the periodic table structure, rather than fluctuating unpredictably.