Question

but the element symbols in the boxes which rank them from lowest to highest metallic character. (use ca, k, b and al) fill in blank < fill in blank < fill in blank < fill in blank least metallic >most metallic

Explanation:

Step1: Recall the trend of metallic character in periodic table

Metallic character increases down a group and decreases across a period from left to right.

Step2: Analyze the positions of elements

• Boron (\(B\)) is in group 13, period 2.
• Aluminium (\(Al\)) is in group 13, period 3.
• Calcium (\(Ca\)) is in group 2, period 4.
• Potassium (\(K\)) is in group 1, period 4.

Since \(B\) is highest up and right - most among them, it has least metallic character. Then \(Al\) (same group as \(B\), but lower). Among \(Ca\) and \(K\), \(K\) is more metallic as it is more to the left in the same period.

Answer:

\(B