Question

Helium is the only element that has a different number of valence electrons than any other element in its group. So, why is it grouped where it is?

Answers

GPT 3.5
Helium is grouped where it is on the periodic table due to its electronic configuration and other chemical properties. Although helium does not follow the general trends of elements in its group, it still shares certain similarities with them.

Helium belongs to Group 18 or the noble gases group, which consists of elements with a completely filled outer electron shell. This group is known for its inertness and stability since the outer electron shell is fully occupied. Helium, like other noble gases, has a full s orbital with two electrons in its outer shell (valence shell). This configuration gives helium high stability and causes it to have a low reactivity, which is a characteristic of elements in Group 18.

Despite having a different number of valence electrons (compared to the other elements in its group), helium shares similar chemical properties with other noble gases, such as its non-reactivity and low boiling point. These similarities justify its placement in Group 18 of the periodic table.

It is important to note that the periodic table is organized based on various properties, including electron configuration, atomic number, and chemical behavior. While helium deviates from the typical valence electron count in its group, its overall behavior and properties align with the characteristics of noble gases.

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