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Why does the metallic character of elements decrease from left to right across a period?
AThe effective nuclear charge rises, so losing electrons gets harder
BA new shell is added, so electrons are lost more easily
CThe atomic radius increases steadily across the period
DThe number of valence electrons stays at one throughout
Answer & Solution
Correct answer: A. The effective nuclear charge rises, so losing electrons gets harder
1. Across a period the nuclear charge rises and the atomic radius shrinks.
2. Both raise the effective nuclear charge on the valence electrons.
3. Electrons are then held more tightly, so the tendency to lose them falls.
4. Lower electron-losing tendency means lower metallic character.
5. Rule out B: no new shell is added within a period.
6. Rule out C: atomic radius decreases, not increases, across a period.
_Source: Balbharati (Maharashtra Board) Class 10 Science & Technology, Ch 2 "Periodic Classification of Elements", p.36_
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