Beryllium (Be) has four electrons. Fluorine (F) has nine electrons. Which chemical formula shows the correct subscripts for the product of the reaction when beryllium and fluorine combine?

A. Be2F
B. BeF2
C. Be2F2
D. BeF

1 answer

To determine the correct chemical formula for the compound formed when beryllium (Be) and fluorine (F) combine, we need to consider their valences.

Beryllium (Be) has a valence of +2 because it tends to lose its two electrons. Fluorine (F) has a valence of -1 because it tends to gain one electron.

When combining these two elements, the charges must balance. Since beryllium has a +2 charge and each fluorine has a -1 charge, two fluorine atoms will be needed to balance the +2 charge from one beryllium atom.

Thus, the correct formula for the product of the reaction would be BeF₂.

So, the answer is B. BeF₂.