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

13689 Views

See similar Chemistry GCSE tutors

Related Chemistry GCSE answers

All answers ▸

Explain how changing pressure affects equilibrium?


With reference to valencies, describe and explain the differences in reaction as you go down group 1 of the periodic table for the reaction: metal + water -> Metal hydroxide + hydrogen.


What is the difference between moles and molar?


When do halogens displace each other in solutions of their salts?


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