Question
The periodic table shows the position of four elements from four different groups. Based on the positions on the periodic table which of these four elements is most reactive? Aluminum (A) Argon (Ar) Sodium (Na) Sulfur (S)
Answer
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(236 Votes)
Xander
Professional · Tutor for 6 years
Answer
Step 1: Understand the question and the information given. The question is asking which of the four elements - Aluminum (A), Argon (Ar), Sodium (Na), and Sulfur (S) - is the most reactive based on their positions on the periodic table.Step 2: Recall the general trend in reactivity on the periodic table. In general, reactivity increases as you move to the left and down the periodic table. This is because elements on the left side of the periodic table (the metals) tend to lose electrons and form positive ions, while elements on the right side of the periodic table (the non-metals) tend to gain electrons and form negative ions. The closer an element is to the edges of the periodic table (excluding the noble gases on the far right), the more reactive it is.Step 3: Apply this knowledge to the four elements in question. - Aluminum (A) is a metal located towards the left side of the periodic table, so it is relatively reactive.- Argon (Ar) is a noble gas located on the far right of the periodic table. Noble gases are known for their low reactivity.- Sodium (Na) is a metal located even further to the left than Aluminum, so it is more reactive than Aluminum.- Sulfur (S) is a non-metal located towards the right side of the periodic table, but not as far right as the noble gases, so it is moderately reactive.Step 4: Based on this information, the most reactive element out of Aluminum, Argon, Sodium, and Sulfur would be Sodium (Na), as it is the furthest to the left and down on the periodic table.Answer: Sodium (Na) is the most reactive element among the given options.