Question

Why do atoms in groups 1A, 2A, and 3A of the periodic table tend to lose their valence electrons?

(1 point)
Responses

Because they need to gain even more protons.
Because they need to gain even more protons.

To achieve a stable electron arrangement.
To achieve a stable electron arrangement.

To form strong covalent bonds with nonmetals.
To form strong covalent bonds with nonmetals.

Because they have a high electronegativity.

Answer 1

To achieve a stable electron arrangement.

They have only 1–3 valence electrons, so losing them yields a noble‑gas electron configuration (lower energy) and produces stable cations.