Question

Lithium is related diagonally to

• A. Na
• B. Ca
• C. Mg
• D. Both b and c

Answer 1

The correct option is C

Mg

Now let us recall diagonal relationship. Owing to their similar electronegativities, ionic radii, atomic/ionic volumes both Mg and Li exhibit many similarities. In the same group, as we go down, the size of the atom increases. On the other hand, as we move from left to right on the same period, the atomic size decreases. When we cross and descend the periodic table these two opposite effects are in play and this gives rise to similarities in the diagonally adjacent elements in the second and third periods.