Which group in the periodic table exhibits the greatest metallic character?

• A. Group 2 (alkaline earth metals)
• B. Group 17 (halogens)
• C. Group 1 (alkali metals)
• D. Group 18 (noble gases)

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that metallic character refers to how readily an element can lose electrons to form positive ions, which is related to properties like conductivity, malleability, and luster.
2. Recall the general trend in the periodic table: metallic character increases as you move down a group because atoms have more electron shells, making it easier to lose electrons.
3. Also remember that metallic character decreases as you move from left to right across a period because atoms hold their electrons more tightly due to increasing nuclear charge.
4. Identify the groups given: Group 1 (alkali metals), Group 2 (alkaline earth metals), Group 17 (halogens), and Group 18 (noble gases). Group 1 elements are on the far left of the periodic table and have the lowest ionization energies, making them the most metallic.
5. Conclude that Group 1 exhibits the greatest metallic character because its elements lose electrons most easily compared to the other groups listed.