Question

what happens to the mass of each element throughout the periodic table? pick all that apply. a. it decreases right to left b. it increases left to right c. it increases top to bottom d. it decreases top to bottom

Explanation:

In the periodic table, the atomic mass (which is what is referred to as the “mass” of each element here) generally increases as we move from left - to - right across a period (because the number of protons and neutrons in the nucleus increases). Also, as we move from top - to - bottom within a group, the atomic mass increases (due to the addition of more electron shells and more sub - atomic particles in the nucleus).

• For option a: The mass does not decrease right - to - left. Instead, it increases left - to - right. So, option a is incorrect.
• For option b: As we move from left to right across a period, the atomic number (number of protons) increases, and generally, the atomic mass also increases. So, option b is correct.
• For option c: As we move from top to bottom in a group, new electron shells are added, and more protons and neutrons are present in the nucleus, leading to an increase in atomic mass. So, option c is correct.
• For option d: Since the mass increases top - to - bottom, option d is incorrect.

Answer:

B. It increases left to right, C. It increases top to bottom