Inorganic Chemistry 8.2

Trends in the properties of elements in Period 3 

Period 3 

The elements in group 1-2 (sodium, magnesium and aluminium) are metals. They have giant structures , they lose their outer electron to form ionic compounds. 

Silicon - In group 4, forms four covalent bonds. It has some metallic properties so is classed as a semi-metal.

The elements in group 5-7 (Phosphorus, sulfur and chlorine) are non-metals, they can accept electrons to form ionic compounds or share electrons to form covalent compounds. 

Argon - is a noble gas, it has a full outer shell of electrons so is very unreactive.

Study note - When a molecular substance melts, the covalent bonds…