If there are only 8 electrons in the valence shell, then how are there 18 groups in the periodic table?

Question

I am homeschooled and I am in 9th grade. I am learning a little bit about chemistry and I am wondering what the middle block of elements is for, if there are only 8 possible valence electrons, then how are there the middle elements, and if they have the same number of valence shells as other ones then shouldnt they have similar properties

Answer 1

The whole 8 "possible" valence e-'s is not quite accurate, I don't think. It is a bit easier to think about, and works somewhat for the first 20 or so elements. A bit of a more updated way of thinking is in orbitals.

Answer 2

Because the electron energy levels buildup in layers, - s, p, d, f. See:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Electron_co...

This material may be a little advanced for you, but poke around in it, look at the various refrences and you'll have a good idea of how it works.

Answer 3

the elements from group 3 to 12 are TRANSITION  ELEMENTS.

It means that they are metals with 2 electrons on the valence shell but that they correspond to the filling of an inner subshell  d  (containing 10 electrons). For this reason ,these elements have similar chemical properties (metals, high density, high melting points)

An example in the 4th period from element 21 Sc to 30 Cu)which corresponds to the filling of the subshell 3d

Answer 4

elektrons orbit in shells (levels)

top most level kan hav up tu 2 elektrons

next level down kan hold 8 elektrons

next level down...18

quantum effekts kauz this