Question

Considering the elements B, C, N, F, and Si, the correct order of their non-metallic character is:
(a) B > C > Si > N > F
b) Si > C > B > N > F
(c) F > N > C > B > Si
d) F > N > C > Si > B

Answer 1

The non-metallic character of elements increases from left to right across a period. Thus, the decreasing order of non-metallic character is F > N > C > B.

Again, the non-metallic character of elements decreases down a group. Thus, the decreasing order of non-metallic characters of C and Si are C > Si. However, Si is less non-metallic than B i.e., B > Si.

Hence, the answer (c), the correct order of their non-metallic characters is F > N > C > B > Si.