Question

Hydrogen shows characteristics similar to metals and .

• A. alkaline earth
• B. alkali
• C. halogens
• D. chalcogens

Answer 1

Answer: (B), (C)

The correct options are
B alkali
C halogens

Hydrogen has one electron in its outermost shell like alkali metals (Li, Na, K, Rb, Cs). It forms compounds like oxides, halides and sulphides, just like them.
For example, hydrogen form ${\text{H}}_2\text{S}$ similar to ${\text{Na}}_2\text{S}$

Hydrogen also shows few properties similar to that of halogens. It can gain an electron and form ${\text{H}}^{-}$ ion similar to halide ions $({\text{F}}^{-},{\text{Cl}}^{-},{\text{Br}}^{-},{\text{I}}^{-})$. It also exists as a diatomic molecule like halogens $({\text{F}}_2,{\text{Cl}}_2,{\text{Br}}_2,{\text{I}}_2)$.