Multiple Choice
Which of the following best describes the difference between a standard hydrogen atom and a hydrogen ion?
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2. Atoms & Elements
Ions
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Which of the following describes what an atom typically does to form a stable ion?
A
It absorbs energy to move to a higher energy level.
B
It changes the number of protons in its nucleus.
C
It shares electrons equally with another atom.
D
It gains or loses electrons to achieve a full valence shell.
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand that atoms form ions to achieve a more stable electronic configuration, often resembling the nearest noble gas configuration with a full valence shell.
Recall that the number of protons in the nucleus defines the element and does not change during ion formation; thus, changing protons is not how ions form.
Recognize that absorbing energy to move electrons to higher energy levels is related to excitation, not ion formation.
Know that sharing electrons equally with another atom describes covalent bonding, not ion formation.
Conclude that atoms typically gain or lose electrons to fill or empty their outermost electron shell, resulting in a stable ion with a full valence shell.
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