Based on periodic trends in metallic character, which of the following elements is likely to be the most brittle?

• A. Mg (magnesium)
• B. Na (sodium)
• C. S (sulfur)
• D. Al (aluminum)

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that metallic character refers to how readily an element exhibits properties typical of metals, such as conductivity, malleability, and ductility.
2. Recall that metallic character generally increases as you move down a group in the periodic table and decreases as you move from left to right across a period.
3. Recognize that metals tend to be malleable and ductile, meaning they are not brittle, while nonmetals tend to be brittle solids or gases at room temperature.
4. Identify the elements given: Mg (magnesium), Na (sodium), and Al (aluminum) are metals, whereas S (sulfur) is a nonmetal.
5. Conclude that sulfur, being a nonmetal with low metallic character, is more likely to be brittle compared to the metallic elements listed.