The next three elements in the second Period are the most significant of all elements. They, along with Hydrogen, comprise the backbone of all life structures. They are atomic numbers 6, 7 and 8: Carbon, Nitrogen and Oxygen. Carbon is a solid and Nitrogen and Oxygen are gases. We talk about our Carbon footprint, put Nitrogen in our tires to make them ride smoother and last longer, and we go to Oxygen Bars for a quick pick me up in flavors no less! We will look at each of these elements in more detail later.
The last two elements in the second Period are Fluorine (9) and Neon (10). Fluorine is short one electron from the 2p shell and thus forms strong bonds with other elements that can give it an electron. One such compound, Sodium Fluoride (NaF) is used in some toothpastes to help strengthen tooth enamel. Fluorine is highly corrosive due to this need to attract an additional electron. It is toxic to human life.
The last element is Neon. It is the second Noble gas and is very stable. The 2s and 2p shells are completely full. When Neon is sealed into a hollow glass tube and then subject to a high voltage it will become ionized and exhibit a bright orange glow. These glass tubes can be bent into almost any shape and these "Neon lights" are the basis of Neon signs such as those found in liquor store windows advertising your favorite beer.
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