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.