Periodic Trends

line graphGraphing IconOften, concepts are easier to understand when they are placed in a visual format, like a graph. In this activity, you will graph and analyze actual elemental data in order to analyze and observe periodic trends. Using the data from the first thirty-six elements to create four different graphs, you will witness certain trends in the periodic table.

This activity is available below or in a printable version. Make sure to complete both Part I and Part II of the assignment.

Part I: Graphing

Using the data provided for the first thirty-six elements on the periodic table of elements, produce the following graphs:

  • Atomic Radius (y) versus Atomic Number (x)
  • Melting Point (y) versus Atomic Number (x)
  • Ionization Energy (y) versus Atomic Number (x)
  • Electronegativity (y) versus Atomic Number (x)

Make sure each of your graphs contains a title, labeled axes, and a label for each data point that includes the corresponding element symbol. All of your graphs should be well organized and easy to understand. Your graphs should utilize an appropriate scale for the data that they are displaying.

Options for creating and submitting your graphs include:

  • Hand-draw the graphs using graph paper and then take a picture of them for submission to the assignment's dropbox.
  • Hand-draw the graphs using graph paper and then scan them for submission to the assignment's dropbox.
  • Utilize a spreadsheet or graphing program to create the graphs for submission to the assignment’s dropbox.
  • Use a mobile or computer-based application to create an image or document. Then, email or export the final product for submission to the assignment’s dropbox.

Part II: Graph Analysis

Once you have completed your graphs, provide responses to the following questions:

  1. Discuss the shapes of the Atomic Radius graph and the Atomic Number graph. What trends are apparent? Does your graph support the statement that atomic radius is a periodic property? Where would you expect the next peak on the graph to appear?
  2. Is melting point a periodic property? Explain your response.
  3. Which elements have the highest ionization energies? Which have the lowest? What trends are apparent?
  4. Which elements have the highest electronegativities? Which have the lowest? What trends are apparent?
  5. What is the relationship between atomic radius and ionization energy?
  6. What is the relationship between atomic radius and electronegativity?

Assignment Icon
Once you have completed your graphing assignment, please submit your work to the dropbox.