Question

The correct increasing order of metallic character of the elements Si, Be, Mg, Na and P is

• A. P $<$ Si $<$ Be $<$ Mg $<$ Na
• B. Si $<$ P $<$ Be $<$ Mg $<$ Na
• C. Be $<$ P $<$ Si $<$ Na $<$ Mg
• D. Na $<$ Mg $<$ Be $<$ Si $<$ P

Hint:

The "bottom-left" corner of the periodic table is the most metallic. Sodium (Na) is the furthest left, making it the most metallic in this set. Phosphorus (P) is the furthest right, making it the least.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Metallic character decreases across a period (left to right) and increases down a group (top to bottom) in the periodic table.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
1. Elements involved: Na ($Z=11$, Gp 1), Mg ($Z=12$, Gp 2), Be ($Z=4$, Gp 2), Si ($Z=14$, Gp 14), P ($Z=15$, Gp 15).
2. Group 1 metals (Na) are more metallic than Group 2 (Mg, Be).
3. In Group 2, Mg (higher period) is more metallic than Be.
4. Si and P are non-metals/metalloids in higher groups (14 and 15), so they have lower metallic character.
5. P (Group 15) is further right than Si (Group 14), making it the least metallic.
Ranking: P (Least) $<$ Si $<$ Be $<$ Mg $<$ Na (Most).

Step 3: Final Answer:
The correct order is P $<$ Si $<$ Be $<$ Mg $<$ Na.