College

As the elements in Group 15 are considered in order of increasing atomic number, which sequence in properties occurs?

A) nonmetal → metalloid → metal
B) metalloid → metal → nonmetal
C) metal → metalloid → nonmetal
D) metal → nonmetal → metalloid

Answer :

In Group 15 of the periodic table, elements transition from nonmetal to metalloid to metal with increasing atomic number, making the correct sequence nonmetal → metalloid → metal.

As the elements in Group 15 of the periodic table are considered in order of increasing atomic number, we observe a transition in properties from nonmetal to metalloid to metal. This sequence reflects the general trend on the periodic table where elements change from nonmetals through metalloids to metals with increasing atomic number. In Group 15, the uppermost element is nitrogen (N), which is a nonmetal. Below nitrogen is phosphorus (P), also a nonmetal. Arsenic (As) and antimony (Sb) come next and are metalloids, and the bottom element is bismuth (Bi).