Question

Considering the elements B, C, N, F and Si, the correct order of their non-metallic character is 

(a) B>C>Si>N>F 

(b) Si>C>B>N>F 

(c) F>N>C>B>Si 

(d) F>N>C>Si>B

Answer 1

(c) F>N>C>B> Si

In a period, the non-metallic character increases from left to right. Thus, among B, C, N and F, non-metallic character decreases in the order: F > N > C> B. However, within a group, non-metallic character decreases from top to bottom. Thus, C is more nonmetallic than Si. Therefore, the correct sequence of decreasing non-metallic character is: F> N > C > B > Si,