Dr. Zohra Sattar Waxali earned her doctorate in chemistry and biochemistry from Northwestern University, specializing in the metallomes of cardiac cells and stem cells, and their impact on biological function. Her research encompasses the development of arsenoplatin chemotherapeutics, stapled peptide estrogen receptor inhibitors, and antimicrobial natural products. With her expertise, Dr. Waxali ensures the accuracy and relevance of our chemistry quizzes, contributing to a comprehensive understanding of chemical principles and advancements in the field.
, PhD (Chemistry)
Approved & Edited byProProfs Editorial Team
The editorial team at ProProfs Quizzes consists of a select group of subject experts, trivia writers, and quiz masters who have authored over 10,000 quizzes taken by more than 100 million users. This team includes our in-house seasoned quiz moderators and subject matter experts. Our editorial experts, spread across the world, are rigorously trained using our comprehensive guidelines to ensure that you receive the highest quality quizzes.
Take our Periodic table MCQ quiz to test your knowledge of the elements and their positions respective to each other. This quiz is made up of 22 multiple choice questions and 1 fill-in-the-blank question. All questions are related to the periodic table and are designed in a way so as to allow us to calculate your final result based on your selected answers. Don't forget to share this quiz with your friends! Looking to test your knowledge of atomic numbers within the periodic table? Check out our quiz on the Atomic Numbers of the First 20 Elements in the Periodic Table Quiz for an in-depth exploration of these fundamental elements.
Periodic Table Questions and Answers
1.
How many element groups are there?
A.
7
B.
11
C.
16
D.
18
E.
26
Correct Answer
D. 18
Explanation The elements in the periodic table are organized into groups based on their similar chemical properties and electronic configurations. The number of element groups is determined by the columns in the periodic table. Each column represents a group, and the elements within a group share similar characteristics. There are 18 columns or groups in the periodic table labeled from 1 to 18. The elements in the same group have the same number of electrons in their outermost electron shell, which contributes to their similar chemical behavior. The division into groups helps in understanding and predicting the chemical behavior of elements. So, when the question mentions "element groups," it is referring to these 18 columns in the periodic table.
Rate this question:
2.
Who is the creator of the periodic table?
A.
Dimitri Mendeleev
B.
Henry Moseley
Correct Answer
A. Dimitri Mendeleev
Explanation Dimitri Mendeleev is credited as the creator of the periodic table. He was a Russian chemist who organized the elements based on their atomic weight and properties. Mendeleev's periodic table arranged the elements in rows and columns, leaving gaps for undiscovered elements and predicting their properties. His work laid the foundation for the modern periodic table that we use today.
Rate this question:
3.
_______________discovered the number of protons in the nucleus of each atom.
Correct Answer Henry Moseley, Moseley
Explanation Henry Moseley discovered the number of protons in the nucleus of each atom. This discovery was made through his experiments with X-ray spectroscopy. Moseley observed that the X-ray spectra of different elements shifted in a predictable manner when subjected to an electric field. He realized that this shift was directly related to the atomic number of the element, which is the same as the number of protons in the nucleus. Moseley's work led to the concept of atomic numbers and the organization of the periodic table based on these numbers.
Rate this question:
4.
What element does the symbol Au stand for?
A.
Gold
B.
Silver
C.
Copper
D.
Tin
Correct Answer
A. Gold
Explanation The symbol Au represents the element gold in the periodic table. Chemical elements are often represented by one or two-letter symbols, and in this case, Au is derived from the Latin word "aurum," which means gold. Each element has a unique symbol to simplify communication in the field of chemistry. Therefore, when you see the symbol Au, it specifically refers to the metallic element gold with its distinct properties and characteristics.
Rate this question:
5.
What is the atomic number for helium?
A.
1
B.
2
C.
4
D.
8
Correct Answer
B. 2
Explanation The atomic number of an element is the number of protons found in the nucleus of its atoms. For helium, the atomic number is 2, which means each helium atom has two protons. The atomic number determines the element's identity and its position on the periodic table. Helium, with an atomic number of 2, is a noble gas, making it very stable and non-reactive. It is the second element on the periodic table, following hydrogen. Understanding atomic numbers helps in identifying elements and predicting their chemical behavior based on their position in the periodic table.
Rate this question:
6.
What is the symbol for tin?
A.
Sn
B.
Se
C.
Sg
D.
Sr
Correct Answer
A. Sn
Explanation The symbol Sn represents the element tin in the periodic table. Chemical symbols are standardized abbreviations used to represent elements, and they are often derived from the element's name in English, Latin, or another language. In the case of tin, the symbol Sn is based on the Latin word "stannum." So, whenever you see the symbol Sn, it specifically denotes the element tin with its unique properties and characteristics.
Rate this question:
7.
What is the atomic number for the element tantalum?
A.
22
B.
81
C.
52
D.
73
Correct Answer
D. 73
Explanation The atomic number of an element is the number of protons in its nucleus. Tantalum has an atomic number of 73, meaning each atom of tantalum contains 73 protons. This atomic number places tantalum in the transition metals category on the periodic table, specifically in group 5. Tantalum is known for its high melting point and resistance to corrosion, making it useful in electronic components, surgical instruments, and aerospace applications. Knowing the atomic number helps in identifying elements and understanding their properties and behavior in chemical reactions.
Rate this question:
8.
What is the symbol for Argon?
A.
A
B.
An
C.
Ag
D.
Ar
Correct Answer
D. Ar
Explanation The symbol for Argon is Ar. Argon is a chemical element that belongs to the group of noble gases in the periodic table. It is colorless, odorless, and inert, meaning it does not easily react with other elements or compounds under normal conditions. Argon is the third most abundant gas in the Earth's atmosphere, making up about 0.93% by volume. It is used in various applications, such as providing an inert atmosphere in welding and metalworking, as a gas for filling incandescent and fluorescent light bulbs, and in scientific research and industry for its unique properties and stability.
Rate this question:
9.
What is the atomic number for beryllium?
A.
83
B.
4
C.
35
D.
5
Correct Answer
B. 4
Explanation The atomic number of an element indicates the number of protons in its nucleus. Beryllium has an atomic number of 4, which means each atom of beryllium contains four protons. This places beryllium in the second period and group 2 of the periodic table, classifying it as an alkaline earth metal. Beryllium is lightweight, has a high melting point, and is used in aerospace materials and certain types of X-ray equipment. Understanding atomic numbers is essential for identifying elements and predicting their chemical properties and behaviors based on their position in the periodic table.
Rate this question:
10.
What element group does germanium belong to?
A.
Basic Metal
B.
Non-Metal
C.
Rare Earth
D.
Semi-Metal
Correct Answer
D. Semi-Metal
Explanation Germanium belongs to the group of elements known as semi-metals, also called metalloids. Semi-metals have properties that are intermediate between metals and non-metals. Germanium has a grayish-white appearance and is brittle like a metal but lacks the same malleability and conductivity as typical metals. It is used primarily in electronics as a semiconductor, forming a crucial component in transistors and other semiconductor devices. Germanium's ability to conduct electricity can be altered by adding impurities, a process known as doping, which makes it essential for modern electronic applications. Its properties make germanium a valuable material in the technology and telecommunications industries.
Rate this question:
11.
What element group does rubidium belong to?
A.
Alkaline earth
B.
Basic metal
C.
Alkali metal
D.
Transition metal
Correct Answer
C. Alkali metal
Explanation Rubidium belongs to the group of elements known as alkali metals. Alkali metals are highly reactive metals that are soft and have a shiny appearance. Rubidium is a silvery-white metal that is similar in properties to other alkali metals like sodium and potassium. It is not found freely in nature due to its high reactivity but can be extracted from minerals containing other alkali metals. Rubidium has applications in various fields, including in the study of atomic clocks, as a component in photocells, and in medical diagnostics. Its properties make rubidium useful in scientific research and technology.
Rate this question:
12.
What is the atomic number for cesium?
A.
20
B.
48
C.
6
D.
55
Correct Answer
D. 55
Explanation The atomic number of an element is the number of protons in its nucleus. Cesium has an atomic number of 55, meaning each cesium atom has 55 protons. This positions cesium in group 1 of the periodic table, among the alkali metals. Cesium is highly reactive, especially with water, and has one of the lowest melting points of all metallic elements. It is used in various applications, such as atomic clocks and in the oil industry for drilling fluids. Knowing the atomic number helps identify elements and understand their properties and how they behave chemically.
Rate this question:
13.
What is the symbol for ruthenium?
A.
Rn
B.
Ru
C.
Rh
D.
Rf
Correct Answer
B. Ru
Explanation The symbol "Ru" represents the element ruthenium in the periodic table. Chemical symbols are standardized abbreviations used to uniquely identify elements. In the case of ruthenium, the symbol "Ru" is derived from its name. The use of symbols makes it convenient to write chemical formulas and represent elements in a concise and standardized manner. Therefore, when you see the symbol Ru, you can specifically identify it as the element ruthenium, which has distinct properties and characteristics.
Rate this question:
14.
What is the symbol for manganese?
A.
Mo
B.
Mg
C.
Mt
D.
Mn
Correct Answer
D. Mn
Explanation The symbol Mn represents the element manganese in the periodic table. Chemical symbols are standardized abbreviations used to uniquely identify elements. In the case of manganese, the symbol Mn is derived from its name. The use of symbols makes it convenient to write chemical formulas and represent elements in a concise and standardized manner. Therefore, when you see the symbol Mn, you can specifically identify it as the element manganese, which has distinct properties and characteristics.
Rate this question:
15.
What is the symbol for phosphorus?
A.
Po
B.
P
C.
Pb
D.
Pu
Correct Answer
B. P
Explanation The symbol "P" represents the element phosphorus in the periodic table. Chemical symbols are standardized abbreviations used to uniquely identify elements. In the case of phosphorus, the symbol "P" is derived from its name. Using symbols makes it easy to write chemical formulas and represent elements in a concise and standardized manner. Therefore, when you see the symbol P, you can specifically identify it as the element phosphorus, which has distinct properties and characteristics.
Rate this question:
16.
What element does the symbol Fe stand for?
A.
Francium
B.
Fluorine
C.
Iodine
D.
Iron
Correct Answer
D. Iron
Explanation The symbol Fe stands for the element iron. Iron is a metallic chemical element with a silver-gray appearance and is the most common element on Earth by mass. It is essential for many biological processes in living organisms, including oxygen transport in blood (as part of hemoglobin) and as a component of various enzymes involved in metabolism. Iron is also widely used in construction and manufacturing due to its strength and ability to be easily shaped into various forms. Its magnetic properties make it useful in electrical devices and industrial applications.
Rate this question:
17.
What group does the element neon belong to?
A.
Halogen
B.
Rare Earth
C.
Noble Gas
D.
Non-Metal
Correct Answer
C. Noble Gas
Explanation Neon belongs to the group of elements known as noble gases. Noble gases are colorless, odorless, and generally inert gases that rarely react with other elements or compounds. Neon, specifically, is known for its bright orange-red glow when electrically charged, which is why it is used in neon signs and lighting. Noble gases have full outer electron shells, making them stable and unreactive under normal conditions. This stability makes neon and other noble gases valuable in various applications, such as in lighting, electronics, and as a shielding gas in welding.
Rate this question:
18.
What is the atomic weight of copper?
A.
58.9332
B.
63.557
C.
51.9961
D.
40.078
Correct Answer
B. 63.557
Explanation The atomic weight of copper is 63.557 atomic mass units (amu). Atomic weight, also known as atomic mass, is the average mass of atoms of an element, taking into account the relative abundance of its isotopes in nature. Copper is a reddish-brown metal known for its high conductivity and malleability. It is commonly used in electrical wiring, plumbing, and as a component in various alloys due to its desirable physical and chemical properties. Understanding the atomic weight of copper helps scientists and engineers accurately calculate its properties and behavior in different applications and environments.
Rate this question:
19.
What is the atomic mass for Nitrogen?
A.
14
B.
22
C.
7
D.
28
Correct Answer
A. 14
Explanation The atomic mass for Nitrogen is 14. This is because the atomic mass of an element is the weighted average mass of all its isotopes, taking into account the abundance of each isotope. Nitrogen has two main isotopes: Nitrogen-14 and Nitrogen-15. Nitrogen-14 is the most abundant isotope, making up about 99.6% of natural nitrogen. Nitrogen-15 is less abundant. By calculating the weighted average of these isotopes, we arrive at an atomic mass of 14 for Nitrogen.
Rate this question:
20.
What is the atomic number for Nitrogen?
A.
3
B.
14
C.
7
D.
22
Correct Answer
C. 7
Explanation The atomic number of an element is the number of protons in its nucleus. Nitrogen has an atomic number of 7, meaning each nitrogen atom contains seven protons. This places nitrogen in group 15 and period 2 of the periodic table. Nitrogen is a non-metal and makes up about 78% of the Earth's atmosphere. It is essential for all living organisms as it is a key component of amino acids, proteins, and nucleic acids. Understanding atomic numbers is crucial for identifying elements and predicting their chemical properties and behavior based on their position in the periodic table.
Rate this question:
21.
Which element is the most abundant in the universe?
A.
Oxygen
B.
Silicon
C.
Hydrogen
D.
Helium
Correct Answer
C. Hydrogen
Explanation Hydrogen is the most abundant element in the universe. It makes up about 75% of the elemental mass of the universe. Hydrogen is a colorless, odorless gas and the simplest element, consisting of just one proton and one electron. It is found in stars, gas giant planets like Jupiter and Saturn, and in vast interstellar clouds of gas and dust. In stars, hydrogen undergoes nuclear fusion to form helium, releasing energy in the process. This abundant presence of hydrogen in the universe is fundamental to our understanding of stellar evolution, cosmology, and the formation of galaxies and solar systems.
Rate this question:
22.
Hydrogen-1 has 1 proton, 1 electron, and 0 neutrons.
A.
True
B.
False
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation True. Hydrogen-1, also known as protium, consists of one proton and one electron in its nucleus and electron cloud, respectively. It typically does not have any neutrons, although rare isotopes of hydrogen with one neutron do exist.
Rate this question:
Zohra Sattar Waxali |PhD (Chemistry)|
Chemistry
Dr. Zohra Sattar Waxali earned her doctorate in chemistry and biochemistry from Northwestern University, specializing in the metallomes of cardiac cells and stem cells, and their impact on biological function. Her research encompasses the development of arsenoplatin chemotherapeutics, stapled peptide estrogen receptor inhibitors, and antimicrobial natural products. With her expertise, Dr. Waxali ensures the accuracy and relevance of our chemistry quizzes, contributing to a comprehensive understanding of chemical principles and advancements in the field.
Quiz Review Timeline +
Our quizzes are rigorously reviewed, monitored and continuously updated by our expert board to maintain accuracy, relevance, and timeliness.