Question

1. classify each of the following elements as metal, non metal or metalloid: k, xe, ge, pu, ni, and kr.
2. of all of the metals on the periodic table, which one has the highest melting point?
3. pick 1 element from the periodic table which you think is the most important and describe why it is the most important to you.

Explanation:

Question 1

• K (Potassium): Alkali metal, so metal.
• Xe (Xenon): Noble gas, non - metal.
• Ge (Germanium): Metalloid (has properties of both metals and non - metals).
• Pu (Plutonium): Actinide metal, so metal.
• Ni (Nickel): Transition metal, so metal.
• Kr (Krypton): Noble gas, non - metal.

Among metals, tungsten (W) has the highest melting point. Tungsten has a very strong metallic bonding due to its large number of valence electrons and the close - packed crystal structure, which requires a large amount of energy to break the bonds and change its state from solid to liquid.

Let's choose Oxygen (O). Oxygen is essential for respiration in living organisms. In the process of cellular respiration, organisms (including humans) use oxygen to break down glucose and release energy (in the form of ATP) which is used for various metabolic activities such as muscle contraction, nerve impulse transmission, and synthesis of biomolecules. It is also crucial for combustion processes, and in the atmosphere, it plays a key role in maintaining the ozone layer which protects the Earth from harmful ultraviolet radiation.

Answer:

• K: Metal
• Xe: Non - metal
• Ge: Metalloid
• Pu: Metal
• Ni: Metal
• Kr: Non - metal

Question 2