Choose the more metallic element from each pair. c. Cl or O

Key Concepts

Metallic Character

Metallic character refers to the tendency of an element to lose electrons and form positive ions. Elements with high metallic character are typically good conductors of heat and electricity, and they exhibit properties such as malleability and ductility. As you move down a group in the periodic table, metallic character increases, while it generally decreases across a period from left to right.

Periodic Trends

Periodic trends are patterns observed in the properties of elements as you move across or down the periodic table. Key trends include atomic radius, ionization energy, electronegativity, and metallic character. Understanding these trends helps predict the behavior of elements in chemical reactions and their relative positions in terms of reactivity and bonding.

Halogens vs. Chalcogens

Halogens (Group 17) and chalcogens (Group 16) are two groups of nonmetals in the periodic table. Halogens, such as chlorine (Cl), are more reactive and have higher electronegativities compared to chalcogens like oxygen (O). While both groups are nonmetals, halogens are generally considered to have less metallic character than chalcogens, making it essential to compare their properties when determining metallic character.