Which of the following statement is correct with respect to the property of elements with an increase in atomic number in the carbon family (group 14)?

Options

A. Atomic size increases
B. Ionization energy increases
C. Metallic character decreases
D. Stability of `+4` oxidation state increase

Answer

To solve the question regarding the properties of elements in the carbon family (Group 14) as we move down the group, we will analyze the statements provided and determine which one is correct based on the trends observed in this group.

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Identify the Elements in Group 14**:
The carbon family includes the following elements: Carbon (C), Silicon (Si), Germanium (Ge), Tin (Sn), and Lead (Pb).

2. **Trend in Atomic Size**:
As we move from Carbon to Lead (top to bottom of the group), the atomic size increases. This is due to the addition of electron shells, which increases the distance between the nucleus and the outermost electrons.

3. **Trend in Ionization Energy**:
Ionization energy is the energy required to remove an electron from an atom. As the atomic size increases, the outermost electrons are further away from the nucleus, resulting in a weaker attraction between the nucleus and the outermost electrons. Therefore, the ionization energy decreases as we move down the group.

4. **Trend in Metallic Character**:
Metallic character refers to the tendency of an element to lose electrons and form positive ions. As we move down the group, the metallic character increases. This is because larger atoms tend to lose electrons more easily due to their lower ionization energies.

5. **Stability of Oxidation States**:
The stability of the +4 oxidation state decreases as we move down the group. This is primarily due to the inert pair effect, where the s-electrons in the outermost shell become less involved in bonding, leading to a preference for the +2 oxidation state in heavier elements like Sn and Pb.

6. **Evaluate the Statements**:
- **Statement 1**: Atomic size increases - **Correct**.
- **Statement 2**: Ionization energy decreases - **Correct** (but if it states that it increases, it is incorrect).
- **Statement 3**: Metallic character decreases - **Incorrect** (it actually increases).
- **Statement 4**: Stability of +4 oxidation state increases - **Incorrect** (it actually decreases).

7. **Conclusion**:
The only correct statement regarding the properties of elements in the carbon family as we move down the group is that atomic size increases.

### Final Answer:
The correct statement is: **Atomic size increases** as we move down the carbon family (Group 14).

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