Question

Among the following metals which one has the least metallic character?
A. Be
B. Mg
C. Ca
D. Sr

Answer 1

Hint: Metallic character is the property of elements of how readily metals lose their electrons to form cations. Metallic character decreases as we move across a period in the periodic table from left to right. Metallic character increases as we move down an element group in the periodic table. As the atomic radius increases, it becomes easier for electrons to lose, where there is less attraction between the nucleus and the valence electrons because of the increased distance between them.

Complete step by step answer:
-Metallic character is the set of chemical properties associated with elements that are metals. Physical properties associated with metallic character include metallic luster, shiny appearance, high density, high thermal conductivity, and high electrical conductivity.
-On moving across a period in the periodic table, metallic property decreases from left to right. This occurs as atoms more readily accept electrons to fill a valence shell than lose them to remove the unfilled shell.
-On moving down the group in the periodic table, metallic property increases. This is because the electrons become easier to lose as the atomic radius increases. The increase in the atomic radius decreases the strong electrostatic force of attraction between the positive nucleus and the negative electrons, causing the electrons to be held more loosely.
-Thus, all given elements are of group IIA and Be is on the topmost position in that group.
Hence, Be will have the least metallic character in the given options.

Therefore, option A is the correct answer.

Note:
Metallic character is a characteristic property of metals, which are all on the left-hand side of the periodic table. Hydrogen is an exception, which is a nonmetal under ordinary conditions but even hydrogen behaves as a metal when it's a liquid or solid.