Chapter 2

Rare Elements. Lithium, beryllium, and boron are elements with atomic numbers 3, 4, and 5, respectively. Despite their being three of the five simplest elements, Figure 17.22 in the text shows that they are rare compared to many heavier elements. Suggest a reason for their rarity. (Hint: Consider the process by which helium fuses into carbon.) 13 ................
................