Problem: Consider the elements: Na, Mg, Al, Si, P.Which element is most metallic?

We’re being asked to determine the most metallic element among Na, Mg, Al, Si, P

Recall that the trend for metallic character is as follows:

• it increases as you move down a group (column)

• the outer shell of electrons is further away from the nucleus, so the valence electrons are easier to strip away from atoms

• it decreases as you move from left to right across a period (row)

• atoms more readily accept electrons to fill an electron shell as you move across a period

The given elements are: Na, Mg, Al, Si, P