Question
The correct order of increasing metallic character of Na, Be, P, Mg and Si is :
NEET
Chemistry
Classification of Elements and Periodicity in Properties
2026
NEET 2026 (Cancelled)
NEET Chemistry Question (2026) — Solution
Options
- A. P < Si < Be < Mg < Na
- B. P < Si < Na < Mg < Be
- C. P < Mg < Be < Si < Na
- D. Be < Si < P < Mg < Na
Answer
A. P < Si < Be < Mg < Na
Step-by-step solution
Metallic character is the tendency of an element to lose electrons. It decreases across a period from left to right and increases down a group. The elements Na , Mg , Si , and P belong to the third period. Across a period, metallic character decreases, so the order is Na > Mg > Si > P . The elements Be and Mg belong to Group 2. Down a group, metallic character increases, so Mg > Be . Comparing Be (a metal) with Si (a metalloid) and P (a non-metal), Be is more metallic than both Si and P . Combining these observations, the increasing order of metallic character is P Answer: P < Si < Be < Mg < Na
Related: Chemistry — Classification of Elements and Periodicity in Properties · All PYQ Banks