Which of the following trends can be identified on the periodic table?

• A. Electronegativity generally increases down a group.
• B. Atomic radius generally decreases across a period from left to right.
• C. Metallic character increases across a period from left to right.
• D. Ionization energy generally decreases down a group.

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the periodic trends involved: electronegativity, atomic radius, metallic character, and ionization energy.
2. Recall that electronegativity generally increases across a period from left to right and decreases down a group, so it does not increase down a group.
3. Know that atomic radius generally decreases across a period from left to right because electrons are added to the same energy level while the nuclear charge increases, pulling electrons closer.
4. Recognize that metallic character generally decreases across a period from left to right because elements become less metallic and more nonmetallic as you move across a period.
5. Remember that ionization energy generally increases across a period and decreases down a group, meaning it does not decrease down a group.