Which of the following statements best describes the trend in metallic character as you move from left to right across a period in the periodic table?

• A. Metallic character decreases from left to right across a period.
• B. Metallic character increases from left to right across a period.
• C. Metallic character remains constant across a period.
• D. Metallic character first increases and then decreases across a period.

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Recall that metallic character refers to how readily an element can lose electrons to form positive ions, which is a typical property of metals.
2. Understand that as you move from left to right across a period in the periodic table, the number of protons in the nucleus increases, causing a stronger attraction between the nucleus and the electrons.
3. Recognize that this stronger attraction makes it harder for atoms to lose electrons, thus decreasing their metallic character.
4. Note that elements on the left side of a period are metals with high metallic character, while elements on the right side are nonmetals with low metallic character.
5. Conclude that the trend in metallic character across a period is a decrease from left to right.