Question

Which pair of symbols identifies two elements that are metalloids?
A. B and Ge
B. Mg and Si
C. P and As
D. Ti and V

Answer 1

Hint: This question is based on the metalloids, lying in between the metals, and the non-metals. Mainly metalloids belong to the p-block in the periodic table. The metalloids are especially used in the field of semiconductor industry.

Complete step by step answer:
First, let us define a metalloid. As mentioned it shows properties in between the metals, and the non-metals. There are approximately 11 metalloids lying in a diagonal region of the periodic table.
Now, if we look at the options, the first is B, and Ge i.e. boron, and germanium. They both represent a metallic appearance, but chemically behave as non- metals. Even germanium is used in the semiconductor industry.
The second option is Mg, and Si; this pair is wrong, as Mg (Magnesium) purely exhibits the properties of a metal, but Si is a metalloid.
The third option is P, and As; this pair is too wrong, as P (phosphorus) purely exhibits the properties of a non- metal, but As lies between metal, and a non- metal.
The fourth option is Ti, and V; in this pair Ti (titanium) is a transition metal, whereas V (vanadium) is a metal. So, this pair is wrong.
In the last, we can conclude that the pair of B, and Ge are identified to be metalloids.
Hence, the correct option is (A).

Note: Don’t get confused while finding the pair of metalloids. Look at the given options, and identify them first according to the metals, non-metals, and transition metals; then the remaining elements can be considered. If in the pair one element is a metalloid, but another element is not, then that pair will not be considered.