Understanding Metallic Character
Metallic character refers to the tendency of an element to lose electrons and form positive ions (cations). This property increases down a group and decreases across a period in the periodic table.
Elements in Question
- Boron (B)
- Aluminium (Al)
- Magnesium (Mg)
- Potassium (K)
Order of Metallic Character
- The correct order of metallic character from least to most is: Boron < aluminium="" />< magnesium="" />< />
Explanation of the Order
- Boron (B):
- Boron is a metalloid, exhibiting properties between metals and non-metals.
- It has a high ionization energy and a strong tendency to gain electrons, making it less metallic.
- Aluminium (Al):
- Aluminium is a metal but has a higher ionization energy than magnesium and potassium.
- It readily loses three electrons to form Al³⁺ ions, giving it a moderate metallic character.
- Magnesium (Mg):
- Magnesium is more metallic than aluminium due to its lower ionization energy.
- It easily loses two electrons to form Mg²⁺ ions, enhancing its metallic properties.
- Potassium (K):
- Potassium is highly metallic, with the lowest ionization energy among the four.
- It readily loses one electron to form K⁺ ions, making it the most metallic element in this group.
Conclusion
In summary, the increasing order of metallic character among boron, aluminium, magnesium, and potassium is attributed to their respective ionization energies and tendencies to lose electrons. This trend reflects the general behavior of elements across the periodic table.