Question

The elements of the third period of the Periodic Table are given below:
Identify the most
i. Metallic and
ii. Nonmetallic element in period $3$.

Answer 1

Metallic and Non-metallic element in Period $3$:

The tendency to lose electrons decreases on moving from left to right along a period, thereby leading to a decrease in the metallic character. The oxides of metals have basic character, while those of nonmetals have acidic character.

i. As $Na$ is placed on the farthest left of the third period, it has the highest metallic character due to its ability to lose the outermost electron.

ii. As $Cl$ is placed in the farthest right of the third period, it has the highest non-metallic character due to its ability to gain an electron and complete its octet.