Step 1 : Understanding the Question:
This is a fundamental periodic table classification question. It asks us to identify an element that is not a member of Group 16, also known as the Chalcogen family. Understanding the group-wise distribution of elements is essential because elements in the same group share similar electronic configurations and chemical properties.
Step 2 : Key Formulas and approach:
We identify the elements of Group 16 based on their column in the p-block. Group 16 elements have 6 valence electrons in their outer shell (general configuration $ns^2 np^4$). We then compare the options against the list of chalcogens.
The approach is:
1. List the elements of Group 16 (O, S, Se, Te, Po).
2. Compare the given options to this list to find the outlier.
Step 3 : Detailed Explanation:
Group 16 elements include Oxygen (O), Sulfur (S), Selenium (Se), Tellurium (Te), and Polonium (Po).
Oxygen, Sulfur, and Selenium are clearly listed as the first three members of Group 16.
These elements all have 6 valence electrons.
Chlorine (Cl) is a halogen. It has the atomic number 17 and an electronic configuration of $[Ne] 3s^2 3p^5$.
Because Chlorine has 7 valence electrons, it is positioned in Group 17, immediately to the right of Group 16.
Chlorine's chemical properties, such as forming $-1$ ions, are characteristic of the Halogen family, not the Chalcogen family.
Therefore, Chlorine is the correct answer as it is the only element in the list that does not belong to Group 16.
Step 4 : Final Answer:
Chlorine is the element that does not belong to Group 16; it belongs to Group 17.