Question

Which column is known as zero group in the modern periodic table? Write the names of any four elements in this group. Why zero group elements are chemically inert?

Answer 1

i. The 18^th column of modern periodic table is known as zero group or group 18.

ii. Four elements of zero group are Helium (He), Neon (Ne), Argon (Ar) and Krypton (Kr).

iii. Zero group elements (or inert gases or noble elements) have stable electronic configuration with complete duplet (in the case of He) or complete octet (in the case of Ne, Ar, etc). 

iv. Due to this, the valency of these elements is zero. 

v. As their valencies are satisfied, these elements do not lose, gain or share electrons with other atoms and therefore, they do not take part in the chemical reactions under ordinary conditions. Hence, zero group elements or inert gases are chemically inert.