MCAT CHEM2 Kaplan Review | 90+ Questions | Periodic Trends, Ionization Energy, Atomic Radius, Reactivity

This expert-verified Kaplan MCAT CHEM2 review provides 90+ flashcard-style Q&A designed to master key periodic trends and elemental properties for the MCAT Chemical and Physical Foundations section. The resource simplifies complex concepts into digestible logic-based comparisons, supported by mnemonics and clear examples, helping pre-med students understand and apply periodic behavior across elements. Covered topics include: Periodic table layout by atomic number, periods (same shell), and groups (same valence electrons) Element types: metals, nonmetals, metalloids, and diatomic elements Essential periodic trends with reasoning: Atomic radius: increases down a group, decreases across a period Ionization energy: increases up and across the periodic table Electron affinity and electronegativity: increase across a period, decrease down a group Fluorine as the most electronegative element Role of effective nuclear charge (Zeff) and electron shielding in atomic behavior Group properties: Alkali and alkaline earth metals as reducing agents Halogens and chalcogens as oxidizing agents Transition metals with variable oxidation states and colored complexes Comparative questions to order atoms/ions by size, IE, EA, or radius (e.g., Ca²⁺ < Ar < Cl⁻ < S²⁻) Detailed breakdown of ion formation, electron configurations, and quantum energy transitions Highlighted exceptions in periodic patterns and transition metal behavior (complexes, multiple oxidation states, poor solubility) Conceptual insights into electron affinity anomalies, bond strength, and metal vs nonmetal tendencies Additional memory aids (e.g., “metals are losers,” “HONClBrIF,” “Dump the HUNK”) This document is ideal for: MCAT test-takers reviewing general chemistry Students in General Chemistry, Inorganic Chemistry, or Pre-Health science programs Reinforcement of electron behavior, chemical bonding, and element classification Keywords: periodic trends, atomic radius, ionization energy, electron affinity, electronegativity, effective nuclear charge, shielding, metals, nonmetals, metalloids, alkali metals, alkaline earth metals, halogens, noble gases, transition metals, oxidation states, reactivity, electron configuration, periodic table, group properties, MCAT chemistry, Kaplan CHEM2