| Word |
Definitions |
| stable element |
An element with a full valence shell (outer energy level). |
| valence shell (level) |
Highest energy level containing electrons. |
| ionization energy |
The energy needed to remove an electron from an atom. |
| electronegativity |
An atom's "need" for another electron (in order to become stable). |
| alkali metals |
Group 1 of the periodic table; are very reactive and create 1+ ions. |
| ion |
An atom that has gained or lost an electron and become positively or negatively charged. |
| cations |
positive ions (atoms with less electrons) |
| alkaline earth metals |
Group 2 on periodic table. They are reactive and form ions with a 2+ charge. |
| transition metals |
Groups 3-12 on the periodic table. |
| halogens |
Group 17 on the periodic table. They are the most reactive nonmetal elements and form 1- ions. |
| noble gases |
Group 18 on the periodic table. They have a full outer energy level and are stable/ nonreactive elements. |
| ionic bonds |
Formed by the transfer of electrons. Compounds formed this way are strong, have high melting points, are usually solid and crystallized. |
| covalent bonds |
Formed by the sharing of electrons. Compunds formed are from non-metals, have low melting points. |
| molecules |
Formed by covalently bonded elements. |
| polar molecules |
Molecules with a partially positive and negative poles. |
| anions |
Negative ions. Atoms with more electrons. |