Group 2 elements have two valence electrons. Which kind of bond will they most likely form, and why?

Question

A. A metallic bond is likely because they ate metals and can bond with other metals
B. A covalent bond is likely because they want to share those two valence electrons in order to become stable
C. An iconic bond is likely because they are metals and will want to bond with nonmetals
D. An ionic bond is likely because they will want to give away two, valence electrons in order to become stable

Answer 1

The correct answer is D. An ionic bond is likely because they will want to give away two valence electrons in order to become stable.

Group 2 elements, also known as the alkaline earth metals, have two valence electrons. To achieve a stable electron configuration (typically resembling that of the nearest noble gas), these metals tend to lose their two valence electrons when they react, forming positive ions (cations). They often bond with nonmetals, which tend to gain electrons to achieve stability, leading to the formation of ionic bonds.