Based on the given properties of the metallic element, let's analyze each characteristic to determine the most likely location on the periodic table:
1. Shiny:
- Many metals are shiny, so this property alone is not sufficient to narrow down the groups significantly.
2. Silver colored:
- This property is also shared by several elements, including those in varying groups. However, more specific properties will help us narrow it down.
3. Forms +1 and +2 ions:
- This is a crucial property. Elements that commonly form +1 ions include Group 1 metals. However, elements that form both +1 and +2 ions are less common and are typically found in specific groups, such as Group 12.
4. Compound with sulfur is bright red:
- Certain metals form colorful compounds with sulfur. For example, mercury sulfide (HgS) is known to form a bright red compound (cinnabar), and mercury is in Group 12.
Considering all these properties:
- The shiny, silver-colored appearance could fit several groups.
- The ability to form +1 and +2 ions significantly narrows it down to elements known for these oxidation states, with Group 12 being notable for elements like zinc, cadmium, and mercury.
- The formation of a bright red compound with sulfur points specifically to mercury sulfide (HgS), aligning with Group 12.
Given these analyses, the metallic element most likely belongs to Group 12 of the periodic table.
