Based on the properties listed in the table for the metallic element, we can analyze each property to determine its most likely position on the periodic table.
1. Shiny: This is a common characteristic of metals.
2. Silver colored: Many metals exhibit a shiny, silver or gray color.
3. Forms +1 and +2 ions: This property significantly narrows down our possibilities. Elements that commonly form +1 and +2 ions are typically found in the transition metals section of the periodic table. Specifically, elements in Group 12 (like zinc, cadmium, and mercury) often form +2 ions, and zinc can sometimes form a +1 ion in uncommon cases.
4. Compound with sulfur is bright red: This property can provide a clue specific to the element's interaction with sulfur. Some transition metals form distinctly colored sulfur compounds.
Taking these properties into consideration, we can narrow down the likely group for this element:
- Group 2 (alkaline earth metals): These elements typically form +2 ions but not +1 ions. They also tend to form white or colorless compounds with sulfur.
- Group 12 (zinc group): These elements can form both +1 and +2 ions (though +1 is less common). Compounds of these metals with sulfur can be distinctly colored.
- Group 13 (boron group): These elements characteristically form +3 ions and are less likely to form +1 and +2 ions.
Given the properties of shining, silver color, forming +1 and +2 ions, and forming a bright red compound with sulfur, the most likely candidate is an element in Group 12.
Therefore, based on the list of properties, the metallic element is most likely found in Group 12 of the periodic table.
