Chemistry 2001 JAMB Past Questions - Question 9: Four elements W, X, Y, and Z have atomic number 2, 6, 16 and 20 respectively. Which of these element? is a metal?

Correct Answer

C

Explanation

In general, elements on the left side of the periodic table tend to be metals, while elements on the right side tend to be nonmetals. Additionally, elements in the middle are often classified as metalloids. Let's look at the atomic numbers you provided:

- Element W with atomic number 2: This is helium (He), a noble gas and nonmetal.
- Element X with atomic number 6: This is carbon (C), a nonmetal.
- Element Y with atomic number 16: This is sulfur (S), a nonmetal.
- Element Z with atomic number 20: This is calcium (Ca), a metal.

Therefore, among the elements W, X, Y, and Z, element Z (calcium) is a metal.