Periodic table group
Group 16
Group 16 is a vertical column of the periodic table containing Oxygen, Sulfur, Selenium, Tellurium, Polonium, Livermorium. Elements in the same group have the same number of valence electrons, which is why they show related chemical behavior. The chalcogens, or oxygen family. With six valence electrons they commonly gain two to form -2 ions, as oxygen and sulfur do in oxides and sulfides.
At a glance
- Elements
- 6
- Atomic numbers
- 8 to 116
- Block
- p-block
- Periods
- 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7
- Phase at STP
- solid (4), gas (1)
Shared properties
- Same valence electron count, so members react in related ways
- Atomic radius increases down the group as electron shells are added
- First ionization energy generally decreases down the group
The 6 elements
Frequently asked questions
What elements are in group 16?
Group 16 contains 6 elements: Oxygen, Sulfur, Selenium, Tellurium, Polonium, Livermorium.
What properties do group 16 elements share?
Elements in group 16 have the same number of valence electrons, so they react in related ways. Atomic radius increases down the group as electron shells are added, and first ionization energy generally decreases down the group. The chalcogens, or oxygen family. With six valence electrons they commonly gain two to form -2 ions, as oxygen and sulfur do in oxides and sulfides.
Why are they called the chalcogens?
Group 16's elements are the chalcogens, also known as the oxygen family. With six valence electrons they commonly gain two to form -2 ions, as oxygen and sulfur do in oxides and sulfides.