Question

Which of the following has the highest non-metallic character?

• A. $\mathrm{Cl}$
• B. $\mathrm{S}$
• C. $\mathrm{Br}$
• D. $\mathrm{P}$

Answer 1

The correct option is A

$\mathrm{Cl}$

The explanation for the correct option: A)

1. As we move down the group the ability to lose electrons by atoms increases and thereby the metallic character increases.
2. As we move from left to right along a period there occurs a decrease in atomic size and an increase in electronegativity. This increases the non-metallic character.
3. Now, Chlorine ($\mathrm{Cl}$) belongs to group 17 and period 3, Sulphur ($\mathrm{S}$) belongs to group 16 and period 3, Bromine ($\mathrm{Br}$) belongs to group 17 and period 4, and Phosphorus ($\mathrm{P}$) belongs to group 15 and period 3.
4. Hence among the given elements, Chlorine's ($\mathrm{Cl}$) location is on the extreme right, hence it has the highest non-metallic character.

The explanation for the incorrect options:

B) Sulphur is a non-metal but its metallic character is lesser than the Chlorine.

C) Down the group the non-metallic character decreases and hence bromine shows lesser metallic character than Chlorine.

D) Phosphorous has the lowest metallic character among all.

Hence option (A) is correct and it is chlorine that has the highest non-metallic character.