In the periodic table, the metallic character of the element: A. Decreases from left to right across a period and on descending a groupB. Decreases from left to right across a period and increases on descending a groupC. Increases from left to right across a period and on descending a groupD. Increases from left to right across a period and decreases on descending a group

The correct answer is:

B. Decreases from left to right across a period and increases on descending a group

In the periodic table, metallic character generally decreases as you move from left to right across a period because the number of valence electrons increases, leading to a stronger attraction between the valence electrons and the nucleus. This results in a decrease in metallic character as elements become more nonmetallic.

Conversely, metallic character increases as you move down a group (column) because the number of electron shells (energy levels) increases, leading to a greater distance between the valence electrons and the nucleus. This increased distance reduces the attraction between the valence electrons and the nucleus, making the elements more metallic in character.