The element S is in Group 16 (Group VI A). It has 6 valence electrons. In order to achieve a stable electron configuration, it can either gain 2 electrons to have a full octet or lose 6 electrons to have an empty valence shell like the nearest noble gas, argon (Ar).
If it gains 2 electrons, it will have a charge of -2 because the 2 extra electrons will outnumber the 16 protons, resulting in a net negative charge of 2.
If it loses 6 electrons, it will have a charge of +6 because the 16 protons will outnumber the 10 remaining electrons, resulting in a net positive charge of 6.
So, the number of electrons lost or gained by S can be either -2 or +6, respectively.
State the number of electrons lost or gained when the following elements form
Ions.
S
Express your answer as an integer.
1 answer