Identify the group 6A element that best fits each of the following descriptions: (a) Is a metal, (b) Is the most abundant element in the human body, (c) Is the strongest oxidizing agent, (d) Has the most negative electron affinity.

Group 6A, also known as Group 16 of the periodic table, includes elements such as oxygen, sulfur, selenium, tellurium, and polonium. These elements exhibit a range of properties, from nonmetals like oxygen to metalloids and metals like polonium. Understanding the characteristics of these elements is crucial for identifying which one fits specific descriptions.

Metallic character refers to the tendency of an element to exhibit properties typical of metals, such as conductivity, malleability, and ductility. In Group 6A, polonium is the only metal, and its metallic properties distinguish it from the nonmetals and metalloids in the group. Recognizing the metallic character helps in identifying the element that fits the description of being a metal.

Electron affinity is the amount of energy released when an atom gains an electron, and it is a measure of how strongly an atom attracts additional electrons. In Group 6A, elements like oxygen and sulfur have high electron affinities, but the trend shows that the most negative electron affinity is found in the nonmetals. This concept is essential for determining which element has the most negative electron affinity in the group.