Which element in the table below is most likely classified
as a metalloid?
A. Titanium
B. Selenium
C. Potassium
D. Polonium
B. Selenium
To determine which element in the table is most likely classified as a metalloid, we need to understand the properties of metalloids and compare them to the elements listed.
Metalloids are elements that exhibit both metallic and non-metallic properties. They are found along the "staircase" of the periodic table, starting from boron (B) and extending to the bottom-right corner of the table. Metalloids typically have characteristics of both metals and non-metals, such as being semi-conductors and having varying electrical conductivity.
Now, let's evaluate the elements given in the options:
A. Titanium: Titanium (Ti) is considered a metal and not a metalloid. It is a lustrous, strong, and lightweight metal commonly used in various industrial applications.
B. Selenium: Selenium (Se) is a non-metal. While it has some properties similar to metalloid characteristics, it is typically classified as a non-metal.
C. Potassium: Potassium (K) is classified as an alkali metal. It is a highly reactive metal and is not considered a metalloid.
D. Polonium: Polonium (Po) is a radioactive element that belongs to the non-metal group. It is not considered a metalloid.
Based on this analysis, the element that is most likely classified as a metalloid among the options provided is B. Selenium.
To determine which element in the table is most likely classified as a metalloid, let's look at the properties of each of the elements listed:
A. Titanium: Titanium is generally classified as a transition metal and not as a metalloid.
B. Selenium: Selenium is commonly classified as a metalloid. It exhibits properties of both metals and nonmetals.
C. Potassium: Potassium is a metal, not a metalloid.
D. Polonium: Polonium is a metal, not a metalloid.
Therefore, the element that is most likely classified as a metalloid from the options provided is B. Selenium.