The charge of an ion is determined by the number of electrons an atom gains or loses to achieve a stable electron configuration, typically resembling that of the nearest noble gas. Metals in groups 1 and 2 of the periodic table tend to form positive ions (cations) because they have fewer electrons in their outer shell and readily lose these electrons to achieve a more stable electron configuration. In contrast, nonmetals in groups 6 and 7 form negative ions (anions) by gaining electrons, as they have a higher electronegativity and need only a few additional electrons to complete their outer shell and achieve stability.
The periodic table is arranged by various patterns. Using at least 3 complete sentences describe the pattern regarding charges of ions in a periodic table?
Make sure you answer the following questions:
1) What determines the charge of an ion?
2) Do metals in groups 1 and 2 form positive or negative ions, why do they form this type of ion?
3) Do nonmetals in groups 6 and 7 form positive or negative ions, why do they form this type of ion?
1 answer