As the elements from group 15 are considered from top to bottom, the first ionization energy of the elements 1) increases, and the electronegativity decreases

the mantle

explanation:

earth is divided into three layers: the crust or the outermost layer on which we live; the underlying, middle layer - the mantle - and the core (the innermost layer of earth).

metals are good conductor of electricity. it has free electrons on their surface. according to electron pool theory, each atom present in a metal crystal losses all of its valence electron and as a result a pool of free is form. these pool of electrons are free to move and   conduct electricity easily   while making metal as good conductor.

the correct answer is a. the ability of electrons to flow throughout the metal.

if it's not useful, feel free to report for mistake in answer.

a. energy is absorbed in the reaction.

if in a given reaction the energy of products is greater than the energy of reactants it means that reaction is endothermic and during the reaction, the energy is absorbed by reactants. in an endothermic reaction, the products have more stored chemical energy than the reactants. and in this reaction the reactants are more stable than products before the compounds with less energy are always more stable.