Between which two elements is the difference in metallic character the greatest?

• A. Rb and O
• B. O and I
• C. Rb and I
• D. Li and O
• E. Li and Rb

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of metallic character: Metallic character refers to how easily an element can lose electrons to form positive ions (cations). Elements with high metallic character are typically metals, which are found on the left side of the periodic table.
2. Identify the position of each element on the periodic table: Rb (Rubidium) and Li (Lithium) are alkali metals located in Group 1, O (Oxygen) is a non-metal located in Group 16, and I (Iodine) is a halogen located in Group 17.
3. Recognize the trend in metallic character across the periodic table: Metallic character decreases as you move from left to right across a period and increases as you move down a group.
4. Compare the elements based on their positions: Rb is further down in Group 1 compared to Li, indicating a higher metallic character. O and I are non-metals, with O being more non-metallic than I.
5. Determine the greatest difference in metallic character: The greatest difference will be between an element with high metallic character (like Rb) and an element with low metallic character (like O).