The vertical columns in the Periodic Table are termed as — Periodic Table and Periodicity Chemistry Question

💡 Solution & Explanation

# Vertical Columns in the Periodic Table **Step 1: Identify what vertical columns represent** The vertical columns in the Periodic Table arrange elements based on their **electronic configuration and valence electrons**. **Step 2: Recall the terminology** - Vertical columns are called **Groups** (or Families) - Horizontal rows are called **Periods** **Step 3: Why Groups is correct** Elements in the same group: - Have the **same number of valence electrons** - Show **similar chemical properties** - Example: Group 1 (alkali metals): Li, Na, K... all have 1 valence electron **Step 4: Why other options are wrong** (if they were present): - **Period** → horizontal rows, not vertical - **Block** → classification by orbital type (s, p, d, f), not column position - **Series** → outdated/ambiguous terminology **Answer: B = Groups** (or "Families" in older nomenclature)