Periodic trend between atomic number and atomic radius

The periodic table is a tabular representation of the chemical elements and their characteristics. When elements are arranged in order of increasing atomic number, their chemical and physical properties show a periodic pattern. Students can discover these patterns by examining the changes in properties of elements on the periodic table.

LabQuest includes the Periodic Table application and graphs of the periodic trends, such as atomic radius vs. atomic number. The graphs of the periodic trends are also available in the Graphical Analysis app so you can integrate these graphs into discussions with students about the recurring trends. Start with examining the shape of the first graph, atomic radius vs. atomic number, and have students explore the relationship among atomic radius, ionization energy, and electronegativity.

To view the graph of periodic trends, follow these steps.

Original LabQuest (requires version 1.4 or newer)

  1. Turn on LabQuest without a sensor connected.
  2. Choose Plot Periodic Table Graph from the File menu.
  3. A plot of Atomic Radius (pm) vs. Atomic Number will be displayed.

LabQuest 2

  1. Turn on LabQuest 2 without a sensor connected.
  2. Choose Open from the File menu, and select periodic_table_data.qmbl
  3. Tap the Graph tab to view a plot of Atomic Radius (pm) vs. Atomic Number.

Graphical Analysis for Chrome

  1. Launch the Graphical Analysis for Chrome app.
  2. Choose Open Saved Experiment.
  3. Click on Samples.
  4. Choose Periodic Table.

Graphical Analysis for iOS

  1. Launch the Graphical Analysis for iOS app.
  2. Choose Periodic Table.

Graphical Analysis for Android

  1. Launch the Graphical Analysis for Android app.
  2. Choose Periodic Table.