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Which element has the most metallic character?

A) Oxygen
B) Sodium
C) Fluorine
D) Chlorine

User Elad Avron
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1 Answer

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Final answer:

Sodium (B) has the most metallic character of the options given, as it is an alkali metal in Group 1 of the periodic table, which is known for its tendency to lose electrons easily, a key trait of metallic character.

Step-by-step explanation:

The element with the most metallic character among the options provided is Sodium (B). Metallic character is a chemical property that is typically stronger in metals, and it is associated with an element’s ability to lose electrons easily.

Metals are located on the left side of the periodic table and as we move down a group, the metallic character increases due to the increasing size of the atoms and the corresponding decrease in ionization energy, making it easier for the atom to lose its outer electrons.

Conversely, Oxygen, Fluorine, and Chlorine are nonmetals and have high electronegativities, meaning they are more likely to gain electrons in reactions.

Hence, these elements exhibit much less metallic character than Sodium. Sodium is in the alkali metal group (Group 1), and it reacts readily with water, signifying its high metallic character. Amongst the given options, Sodium is the most metallic.

The element with the most metallic character among the options given is Sodium (Na). Metallic character refers to the tendency of an element to lose electrons and form positive ions. Sodium belongs to Group 1 of the periodic table, known as the alkali metals, which are highly reactive and have a strong tendency to lose electrons.

User Josh Rosen
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