Question

Consider the elements N, P, O, S, Cl and F. The number of valence electrons present in the elements with most and least metallic character from the above list is respectively.

• A. 7 and 5
• B. 6 and 7
• C. 5 and 6
• D. 5 and 7

Hint:

To compare metallic character, always check position in the periodic table: lower and more left means more metallic.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Concept: Metallic character:
Increases down a group.
Decreases from left to right across a period.

Step 1: Determine most metallic element From the given elements: \[ \text{N, P (Group 15)},\quad \text{O, S (Group 16)},\quad \text{F, Cl (Group 17)} \] Metallic character increases down the group, so: \[ \text{P}>\text{N},\quad \text{S}>\text{O},\quad \text{Cl}>\text{F} \] Among P, S and Cl, phosphorus (P) is the most metallic. Valence electrons of P (Group 15): \[ \boxed{5} \]
Step 2: Determine least metallic element Least metallic means most non-metallic. Fluorine (F) is the most electronegative element and hence the least metallic. Valence electrons of F (Group 17): \[ \boxed{7} \] Final Answer: \[ \boxed{5\ \text{and}\ 7} \]