Nonmetals

Question 15 • LA-Physical Science A

Looking at the same nonmetal group on the periodic table, how does the reactivity of an element in period 2 compare to the reactivity of an element in period 4?

Answer

The period 2 element would be more reactive because the attractive force of protons is stronger when there are fewer neutrons interfering.

The period 2 element would be more reactive because the attractive force of protons is stronger when electrons are attracted to a closer electron shell.

The period 4 element would be more reactive because the attractive force of protons is stronger when there are more neutrons helping.

The period 4 element would be more reactive because the attractive force of protons is stronger when electrons are attracted to a farther electron shell.

Explanation

For nonmetals in the same group, reactivity generally increases up the periodic table. A period 2 atom has fewer occupied electron shells than a period 4 atom, so its outer electrons are closer to the nucleus and feel a stronger attraction. This makes the period 2 element more likely to attract electrons, matching choice B.

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