Why does the reactivity of group 7 elements decrease down the periodic table?

As you go down the group, the outer electrons are further from the nucleus, this leads to a reduced attraction between the negative outer electrons and positive nucleus. Also, as there are more electrons, the inner shells actually repel the outer most electrons as they have a common charge. Due to the weaker attraction of electrons to the positive nucleus, it is harder for the atom to gain one electron to complete their outer shell so they become less reactive as more energy is required to complete the electron shell

DC
Answered by Dhiren C. Chemistry tutor

13605 Views

See similar Chemistry GCSE tutors

Related Chemistry GCSE answers

All answers ▸

Why are elements of group 0 chemically inert?


Potassium forms an ionic compound with sulfur. Describe what happens when two atoms of potassium reaction with one atom of sulfur (5 marks)


What name is given to the elements on group 7 of the periodic table and what happens to their boiling point as you go down the column?


Explain the difference, in shape and bond angle, between a CO2 molecule and an SO2 molecule?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning