The correct order of metallic character is :

<p>As you move from top to bottom in a group (vertical column) on the periodic table, the metallic character increases. This is because elements at the bottom of a group have more electron shells than those at the top. These extra shells shield the outermost electrons from the pull of the nucleus, which makes it easier for these electrons to be lost, a characteristic of metals.</p> <p>On the other hand, as you move from left to right across a period (horizontal row) on the periodic table, the metallic character decreases. This is because the nuclear charge increases as you move across a period, which pulls the electrons closer to the nucleus and makes them less likely to be lost.</p> <p>Given this, for the elements K (Potassium), Be (Beryllium), and Ca (Calcium), the order of metallic character should be K &gt; Ca &gt; Be. Potassium (K) is furthest down (group 1, period 4), calcium (Ca) is above potassium (group 2, period 4), and beryllium (Be) is above calcium (group 2, period 2). So, the correct order should be Option C: K &gt; Ca &gt; Be.</p>