Based on periodic trends in metallic character, would you normally expect neon (Ne) to form compounds?

• A. No, because neon is a noble gas with a complete valence shell and very low metallic character.
• B. Yes, because neon is highly reactive due to its position in the periodic table.
• C. Yes, because neon has high metallic character and readily forms ionic compounds.
• D. No, because neon is a nonmetal but can form covalent compounds under standard conditions.

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of metallic character: Metallic character refers to how readily an element can lose electrons to form positive ions (cations). Metals have high metallic character, while nonmetals have low metallic character.
2. Recall the position of neon (Ne) in the periodic table: Neon is a noble gas located in Group 18, which means it has a full valence shell of electrons, making it very stable and chemically inert under normal conditions.
3. Consider the reactivity of noble gases: Because neon has a complete octet, it has little tendency to gain, lose, or share electrons, which means it generally does not form compounds.
4. Relate metallic character to neon: Neon has very low metallic character because it is a nonmetal with a full valence shell, so it does not behave like metals that form ionic compounds by losing electrons.
5. Conclude based on periodic trends: Since neon is a noble gas with a complete valence shell and very low metallic character, it is not expected to form compounds under normal conditions.