Question

How do the following properties vary in periodic table?

(ii) Metallic character

Answer 1

Metallic character:- It is the tendency or ability of an element to lose an electron when energy is supplied to form a cation.

1. Down the group:- The atomic radius increases. Due to this the distance between the electrons and nucleus also increases and hence as a result the atom loses electrons more easily. Therefore metallic character increases as we go down the group.
2. Across the period:- As the number of electrons increases the effective nuclear charge also increases. This pulls the electrons close to the nucleus. Hence the atom is unable to lose the valence electrons easily. Therefore metallic character decreases from left to right across a period.

Hence, the metallic increases down the group and decreases across the period from left to right.