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

• A. Mg
• B. Na
• C. Si
• D. Al

Answer: (B)

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 closely related to reactivity in metals.
2. Understand that metallic character increases as you move down a group in the periodic table because atoms have more electron shells, making it easier to lose electrons.
3. Also, metallic character decreases as you move from left to right across a period because atoms have more protons, increasing the effective nuclear charge and holding electrons more tightly.
4. Compare the given elements: Na, Mg, Al, and Si. Na and Mg are in period 3, with Na to the left of Mg; Al and Si are also in period 3 but further to the right.
5. Since Na is furthest to the left and has a lower nuclear charge holding its valence electron, it has the highest metallic character and thus is the most reactive metal among the options.