Graphing Periodic Trends
by Connie Conner, concon@centurytel.net

Content Area(s)
Science

Grade Level(s)
9, 11, 

Overview
Students will graph two different trends from the periodic table, ionization energy and atomic radius. These values will be compared for elements 3-20 and group IA and IIA. This will allow students to determine the relationship between the properties of certain elements and their location on the periodic table.

Software
PTE (periodic table program)
Chem Table (periodic table program)
Excel
Word

Technology
Microsoft Excel
Microsoft Word
copy of periodic table with information
rubric for lab report evaluation

Objectives
1. TLW graph the relationship between the atomic radius of an element and its atomic number.

2. TLW graph the relationship between the ionization energy of an element compared to the atomic number.

3. TLW complete a lab report to convey their results.

Procedures
1. Divide the class into groups of 2 or 3 based on their technology skills using the handheld and their content knowledge.

2. Have the students identify the ionization energy and atomic radius for elements 3-20 using the 2 programs.

3. Record this information in 3 columns using excel. The first column should contain the atomic number. The second contains the atomic radius and the third has the ionization energy amounts listed. A fourth column could be used to identify if it's in IA or IIA for easy reference.

4. For elements in Family IA, make a graph (on computer and paper) comparing the atomic radius and atomic number. Make a second graph of the same for Family IIA. You will have to use Excel on the computer for the graphing.

5. For elements 3-20, make 2 more graphs. The first will show the comparison between the atomic radius of each atom and its atomic number. The second shows the ionization energy vs. the atomic number.

6. Using Word, make notes of any patterns observed from the final graphs and explain why such patterns would exist. Also, compare the paper/pencil graphs to the ones using Excel. Are they the same? If not, give possible reasons why.

7. Complete your lab report using Word. The report should include the purpose, materials, procedure, observations of patterns, conclusion with reasons for patterns,and error analysis whether the original graphs matched with excel graphs and why/why not.

Other Supporting Material

Submitted on: 8/5/2004 12:43:46 AM