Which metalloid in the carbon group is chemically similar to its group neighbours tin and silicon?
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: A
Explanation
The correct answer is Option 1 i.e. Germanium.
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Germanium is a metalloid in the carbon group (Group 14) of the periodic table.
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It shares chemical properties similar to its group neighbors, tin (Sn) and silicon (Si).
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Like silicon and tin, germanium forms covalent bonds and exhibits semiconducting behavior.
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Germanium is used in electronics, similar to silicon, due to its semiconducting properties.
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It differs from lead (Pb) and arsenic (As), which belong to different groups and have different chemical behaviors.
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Flerovium (Fl) is a synthetic element and does not share similar chemical characteristics with tin and silicon.
Explanation of other options:
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Option 2: Flerovium – A superheavy synthetic element, not chemically similar to tin or silicon.
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Option 3: Lead – Also in group 14 but a metal, not a metalloid, and chemically less similar to silicon.
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Option 4: Arsenic – A metalloid but belongs to group 15, chemically different from carbon group elements.