Answer: Reluctance of the 6s 2 electrons to participate in bonding.
- A Reluctance of the 6s<sup>2</sup> electrons to participate in bonding
- B The complete loss of all valence electrons during bonding
- C The unusually high reactivity of the inner d electrons
- D The preferential formation of purely metallic bonds in these elements
Correct answer: A. Reluctance of the 6s<sup>2</sup> electrons to participate in bonding
Explanation: In heavy p-block elements (Pb, Bi, Tl), the 6s<sup>2</sup> electrons are stabilised by relativistic effects and poor shielding, making them non-bonding.
The complete modern periodic table (118 elements). Image: Cepheus et al., Public Domain, via Wikimedia Commons.
Concept context
The periodic table organises all 118 elements by atomic number and similar properties. Study periodic trends like atomic radius, ionization energy, and electronegativity, and learn how an element's position predicts its behaviour.
Read the full Classification of Elements and Periodicity in Properties notes →