Question

Considering the elements $B,Al,Mg$ and $K$, the correct order of their metallic character is:

• A. $K>Al>Mg>B$
• B. $Mg>Al>B>K$
• C. $Mg>Al>K>B$
• D. $K>Mg>Al>B$

Answer 1

The correct option is D $K>Mg>Al>B$

Metallic character refers to the level of reactivity of a metal. Metals tend to lose electrons in chemical reactions as indicated by their low ionization energies.
Within a compound, metal atoms have relatively low attraction for electrons as indicated by their low electronegativities. The trend in the metallic character is opposite to that of ionization energy.
Metallic character decreases along a period from left to right. Therefore, metallic character of $AlandMg$ follow the order: $Mg>Al$. Within a group, metallic character increases from top to bottom so $B$ is less metallic than $Al$. Also, $K$ is more metallic than $Mg$ and $Al$. So, correct order is $K>Mg>Al>B$.