Atoms of eight elements A, B, C, D, E, F, G and H have the same number of electron shells but different number of electrons in their outermost shells. It was found that elements A and G combine to form an ionic compound. This ionic compound is added in a small amount to almost all vegetables and dishes during cooking. Oxides of elements A and B are basic in nature while those of elements E and F are acidic. The oxide of element D is, however, almost neutral. Based on the above information, answer the following questions :
(a) To which group or period of the periodic table do these elements belong ?
(b) What would be the nature of compound formed by a combination of elements B and F ?
(c) Which two of these elements could definitely be metals ?
(d) Which one of the eight elements is most likely to be found in gaseous state at room temperature ?
(e) If the number of electrons in the outermost shell of elements C and G be 3 and 7 respectively, write the formula of the compound formed by the combination of C and G.
