Question:

Given below are two statements : one is labelled as Assertion (A) and the other is labelled as Reason (R).
Assertion (A) : Metallic character decreases and non-metallic character increases on moving from left to right in a period.
Reason (R) : It is due to increase in ionisation enthalpy and decrease in electron gain enthalpy, when one moves from left to right in a period.
In the light of the above statements, choose the most appropriate answer from the options given below :

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Metallic character is directly proportional to atomic radius and inversely proportional to ionization energy. Non-metallic character follows the exact opposite trend.
Updated On: Jan 2, 2026
  • Both (A) and (R) are correct and (R) is the correct explanation of (A).
  • Both (A) and (R) are correct but (R) is not the correct explanation of (A).
  • (A) is true but (R) is false.
  • (A) is false but (R) is true.
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The Correct Option is A

Solution and Explanation

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Metallic character is the tendency of an element to lose electrons (electropositivity), whereas non-metallic character is the tendency to gain electrons (electronegativity).
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
1. Trends in a Period: As we move from left to right across a period, the atomic size decreases and the effective nuclear charge increases.
2. Ionization Enthalpy: Due to the increased nuclear pull, it becomes harder to remove an electron. Thus, Ionization Enthalpy increases. High IE leads to a decrease in the tendency to lose electrons, thereby decreasing metallic character.
3. Electron Gain Enthalpy: As the nuclear charge increases, the atoms have a greater affinity for electrons. The electron gain enthalpy generally becomes more negative (often phrased as "decreases" in the sense of becoming more exothermic). This increases non-metallic character.
4. Relationship: The changes in these energy parameters directly cause the shifts in chemical character described in the assertion.
Step 3: Final Answer:
Both statements are scientifically accurate, and the reason provides the fundamental cause for the observed periodic trend.
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