Question

What is the correct order of reactivity of group 16 elements?

(a) O > Se > S > Te > Po

(b) S > O > Te > Po > Se

(c) S > O > Se > Te > Po

(d) O > S > Se > Te > Po

I had been asked this question during an interview for a job.

My doubt stems from P-Block in portion P-Block Elements of Chemistry – Class 12

Answer 1

The correct answer is (d) O > S > Se > Te > Po

To elaborate: Oxygen is the most reactive group 16 element. Its reactivity is only slightly less than the most reactive elements, halogens. Sulphur is also very reactive particularly at high temperatures which helps in the cleavage of S-S bonds present in S8 molecules. However, as we move down the group, the reactivity decreases, i.e., O > S > Se > Te > Po.