Question

question 2. complete the following statements about periodic trends in reactivity by selecting the most accurate response from the drop - down menu.
i. as you move down a group in the periodic table, the reactivity of metals generally
ii. nonmetals become as you move down a group because the increased distance from the nucleus makes it harder to attract electrons.
iii. across a period from left to right, metals become , while nonmetals become .

Explanation:

For statement I: In the periodic table, as we move down a group (vertical column) for metals, the atomic size increases, and the outermost electrons are further from the nucleus, so they are easier to lose. Thus, metal reactivity generally increases down a group.
For statement II: Nonmetals gain electrons to react. As we move down a group, the atomic radius increases (electrons are further from the nucleus), so the nucleus has less attraction for incoming electrons. Hence, nonmetals become less reactive down a group.
For statement III: Across a period (horizontal row) from left to right, metals (on the left) have a tendency to lose electrons. As we move right, the effective nuclear charge increases, so it’s harder for metals to lose electrons (they become less reactive). Nonmetals (on the right) gain electrons; as we move right, the effective nuclear charge increases, making it easier to attract electrons (so nonmetals become more reactive).

Answer:

I. increases
II. less reactive
III. less reactive; more reactive