Name the elements of group 14 and write down their electronic configuration.
The elements carbon (C), silicon (Si), germanium(Ge), tin(Sn) and lead (Pb) constitute group 14 of the periodic table. Carbon and silicon are typical non-metals, germanium is a semi-metal with some metallic characteristics while tin and lead are typical metals.
Electronic configuration: There are four electrons in the valence shell of the atoms of carbon family. The general electronic configuration may be expressed as [Noble gas] ns2np2.
Discuss the characteristics of group 14 elements in terms of:
(i) Atomic radius
(ii) Ionisation enthalpy
(iii) Electropositive character
(iv) Melting and boiling points.
Explain why is there a phenomenal decrease in ionisation enthalpy from carbon to silicion.
Discuss the characteristics of group 14 elements in terms of:
(i) Oxidation states
(ii) Metallic character.