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Multiple Choice
Why is the placement of hydrogen on the periodic table a subject of debate among scientists?
A
Hydrogen shares properties with both Group 1 (alkali metals) and Group 17 (halogens), making its classification ambiguous.
B
Hydrogen is the only element that does not form compounds with other elements.
C
Hydrogen has the highest atomic number in its period, which complicates its placement.
D
Hydrogen is the only element that is a gas at room temperature, unlike all other elements.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand that the periodic table is organized based on elements' properties and electron configurations, grouping elements with similar chemical behaviors together.
Recognize that hydrogen has a unique electron configuration of 1s¹, which is similar to the alkali metals in Group 1 that also have a single electron in their outermost shell.
Note that hydrogen can also gain an electron to form H⁻, resembling halogens in Group 17, which typically gain one electron to complete their valence shell.
Consider that hydrogen's chemical behavior is versatile: it can lose an electron like alkali metals or gain an electron like halogens, making it difficult to place exclusively in either group.
Conclude that because hydrogen shares properties with both Group 1 and Group 17 elements, scientists debate its placement on the periodic table, as it does not fit neatly into one category.