The elements in each column (or group) of the representative elements series of the periodic table share several common properties due to their similar electron configurations, particularly in their outermost electron shells. The key common property among elements in the same group is:
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Similar Valence Electron Configuration: Elements in the same column have the same number of valence electrons, which greatly influences their chemical behavior and reactivity. For example, all alkali metals (Group 1) have one valence electron, which makes them highly reactive.
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Similar Chemical Properties: Due to their similar valence electron configurations, elements in the same group tend to exhibit similar chemical properties. This includes how they interact with other elements and compouds, their typical oxidation states, and their reactivity patterns.
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Trends in Physical Properties: There are also trends in physical properties, such as atomic size, ionization energy, and electronegativity, that show consistent patterns within groups.
Overall, the elements in each column share these analogous characteristics, making group behavior a fundamental aspect of the periodic table.