Elements which belong to the same group in the Periodic Table are characterized by?

A. difference of +1 in the oxidation numbers of successive members
B. presence of the same number of outermost electrons in the respective atoms
C. difference of 14 atomic mass units between successive members
D. presence of the same number of electron shells in the respective atoms

Correct Answer: Option B

B. presence of the same number of outermost electrons in the respective atoms