Question

Tell how each element below will fill its outer energy level and achieve a stable electron configuration in an ionic bond.

How will Phosphorous (P) achieve a stable electron configuration?

a.It will lose 1 valence electron.
b.It will lose 2 valence electrons.
c.It will lose 3 valence electrons.
d.It will gain 3 valence electrons.
e.It will gain 2 valence electrons.
f.It will gain 1 valence electron

Answer 1

Phosphorous (P) has 5 valence electrons in its outer energy level. In order to achieve a stable electron configuration, it will need to gain 3 valence electrons. Therefore, the correct answer is d. It will gain 3 valence electrons.