Which pair of elements is most likely to be ductile based on their position in the periodic table and their metallic character?

• A. O and S
• B. Na and Cu
• C. Si and P
• D. Cl and Ar

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that ductility is a physical property commonly associated with metals, which allows them to be drawn into wires without breaking.
2. Recall that metallic character increases as you move from right to left across a period and from top to bottom down a group in the periodic table.
3. Identify the elements in each pair and determine their metallic character: O (oxygen) and S (sulfur) are nonmetals; Si (silicon) and P (phosphorus) are metalloids and nonmetals respectively; Cl (chlorine) and Ar (argon) are nonmetals and noble gases; Na (sodium) and Cu (copper) are metals.
4. Recognize that metals like Na and Cu have high metallic character and are known for properties such as ductility, whereas nonmetals and metalloids generally lack ductility.
5. Conclude that the pair Na and Cu is most likely to be ductile based on their metallic nature and position in the periodic table.