Question

Sodium, atomic number 11, forms an ionic bond with an atom of an unknown element. What is one possible choice for the other element in the compound?
Responses
A fluorinefluorine
B galliumgallium
C neonneon
D potassium

Answer 1

In an ionic bond, one atom transfers electrons to another, typically occurring between a metal and a non-metal. Sodium (Na) is a metal that tends to lose one electron to achieve a stable electron configuration. The unknown element in the compound should be a non-metal that can gain an electron.

Among the options provided, **A. fluorine** (atomic number 9) is a non-metal that readily gains one electron to achieve a stable electron configuration, forming a stable compound with sodium: NaF (sodium fluoride).

Therefore, one possible choice for the other element in the compound is **A. fluorine**.