Question

the element phosphorus is located to the right of the element magnesium along the same period in the periodic table. which best describes the relationship of the elements? magnesium has a larger atomic number. phosphorus has a larger atomic mass. magnesium is in the same category as phosphorus. phosphorus has similar chemical properties as magnesium.

Explanation:

Step1: Analyze atomic number concept

Atomic number increases from left to right in a period. Magnesium (\(Mg\), atomic number \(12\)) and phosphorus (\(P\), atomic number \(15\)) are in the same period. Since \(15>12\), phosphorus has a larger atomic number.

Step2: Analyze atomic mass concept

Atomic mass of magnesium (\(\approx24.31\ g/mol\)) and phosphorus (\(\approx30.97\ g/mol\)). Phosphorus has a larger atomic mass.

Step3: Analyze chemical properties

Elements in the same group have similar chemical properties. Magnesium is in group \(2\), phosphorus is in group \(15\). They don't have similar chemical properties.

Step4: Analyze category

Magnesium is an alkaline - earth metal, phosphorus is a non - metal. They are not in the same category.

Answer:

Phosphorus has a larger atomic mass.