Which of the following elements is most likely to appear shiny in its elemental form?

• A. Sulfur (S)
• B. Boron (B)
• C. Calcium (Ca)
• D. Fluorine (F)

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that the shininess or metallic luster of an element in its elemental form is a characteristic property of metals, which have free electrons that reflect light.
2. Identify the type of each element given: Sulfur (S) is a nonmetal, Boron (B) is a metalloid, Calcium (Ca) is an alkaline earth metal, and Fluorine (F) is a halogen nonmetal.
3. Recall that metals, especially alkaline earth metals like Calcium, typically have a shiny, metallic appearance due to their electron structure and bonding.
4. Recognize that nonmetals and metalloids generally do not exhibit a shiny metallic luster; instead, they tend to be dull or have other appearances.
5. Conclude that Calcium (Ca), being a metal, is most likely to appear shiny in its elemental form compared to the other elements listed.