Multiple Choice
Which process leads to the formation of a cation?
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2. Atoms & Elements
Ions
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Which of the following represents the composition of the ion typically formed by magnesium?
A
Mg^{+}
B
Mg^{2-}
C
Mg^{2+}
D
Mg^{-}
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand that magnesium (Mg) is an element in Group 2 of the periodic table, which means it typically loses electrons to achieve a stable electron configuration similar to the nearest noble gas.
Recall that magnesium has 2 valence electrons in its outermost shell (electron configuration: [Ne] 3s^2). To become stable, it tends to lose these 2 electrons.
When magnesium loses 2 electrons, it forms a cation with a charge of +2, because it now has 2 more protons than electrons.
Write the ion symbol to reflect the loss of 2 electrons: $\mathrm{Mg}^{2+}$, indicating a magnesium ion with a +2 charge.
Recognize that ions like $\mathrm{Mg}^{+}$ or $\mathrm{Mg}^{-}$ are not typical for magnesium because losing only one electron or gaining electrons is less stable for this element.
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