Metallic character refers to the ability of an element to lose electrons and form positive ions. As we move down a group in the periodic table, the atomic size increases, and the outer electrons are further from the nucleus, making it easier for the element to lose electrons. This results in an increase in metallic character down a group. On the other hand, as we move from left to right across a period, the atomic size decreases, and the effective nuclear charge increases, making it harder for the element to lose electrons.
Therefore, metallic character decreases across a period from left to right. Among the given elements: Potassium (K) is an alkali metal located in Group 1, and it is farthest to the left and down the group. Therefore, it has the highest metallic character. Silicon (Si), being a metalloid in Group 14, has a lower metallic character compared to metals. It is further to the right and higher in the period, so it has the least metallic character among the elements listed. So, the correct sequence is \(Si < Be < Mg < K\).
Given below are two statements.
In the light of the above statements, choose the correct answer from the options given below: