In an example of a chemical reaction, atoms of one element each lose an electron. Atoms of another element each gain an electron. What could be the two elements?

Question

-an alkali metal and a halogen
-a halogen and noble gas
-two alkaline earth metals
-two halogens

Answer 1

In the described chemical reaction, where atoms of one element lose an electron and atoms of another element gain an electron, the most suitable pair of elements would be an alkali metal and a halogen.

Explanation:

• Alkali metals (such as sodium or potassium) are known for their tendency to lose one electron, forming positively charged ions (cations).
• Halogens (such as chlorine or fluorine) typically gain one electron to achieve a full outer electron shell, resulting in the formation of negatively charged ions (anions).

The other options would not fit the described scenario:

• A halogen and a noble gas would not work because noble gases are generally inert and do not tend to gain or lose electrons.
• Two alkaline earth metals would not work because they both tend to lose electrons but do not gain.
• Two halogens typically engage in covalent bonding rather than transferring electrons.

Thus, the correct answer is an alkali metal and a halogen.