Question

Why do we classify elements?

Answer 1

Hint:We classify elements to make the study of elements easy and it also helps in discovering the new elements. Generally, it enables the chemists to predict the properties of the elements and their compounds based on their positions in the Periodic Table, and vice versa.

Complete answer:
Grouping of the elements into different classes is called periodic element classification. This approach involves the arrangement of related elements, and the separation of unlike elements and also comparison of the properties of elements. It helps us to understand how different compounds make up different elements. It becomes much easier to study, understand, compare and contrast the related properties among the elements and their compounds from different groups. However, there are two main significances of classifying the elements, they are:
Makes the study of elements easy: Classification of elements in groups provides us with a fixed pattern in which the elements change their properties periodically. The periodic table made the study of the physical and chemical properties of elements simple and organized.
Helps in discovering new elements: Although there are so many elements that are already discovered, there are chances that new elements can be discovered. Scientists can take the help of a periodic table and know the trending characteristics based on the properties of elements and hence can identify the new elements with the existing ones.

Note:
Elements can be classified as metals, metalloids, and nonmetals, or as a main-group element, transition metals, and inner transition metals. Groups are numbered 1–18 from left to right.