The strongest electropositive element among the following is:
- A
- B
- C
- D
Solution & Step-by-step Explanation
Electropositivity refers to the tendency of an atom to lose electrons and form positive ions.
In the periodic table:
* Electropositivity increases down a group because the atomic radius increases and the nuclear attraction on valence electrons decreases.
* Electropositivity decreases across a period from left to right because the nuclear charge increases.
Among the given options, Lithium (), Potassium (), and Cesium () belong to Group 1 (alkali metals), which are inherently more electropositive than Group 2 elements like Magnesium (). Within Group 1, Cesium () lies furthest down the group, meaning it has the largest atomic size and lowest ionization energy, making it the strongest electropositive element.
In the periodic table:
* Electropositivity increases down a group because the atomic radius increases and the nuclear attraction on valence electrons decreases.
* Electropositivity decreases across a period from left to right because the nuclear charge increases.
Among the given options, Lithium (), Potassium (), and Cesium () belong to Group 1 (alkali metals), which are inherently more electropositive than Group 2 elements like Magnesium (). Within Group 1, Cesium () lies furthest down the group, meaning it has the largest atomic size and lowest ionization energy, making it the strongest electropositive element.