Multiple Choice
Which of the following best describes an anion and its typical location on the periodic table?
1
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2. Atoms & Elements
Ions
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What is the charge of a magnesium ion (Mg^{2+})?
A
-2
B
+1
C
0
D
+2
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand that the charge of an ion is determined by the difference between the number of protons (positive charges) and electrons (negative charges).
Recognize that a neutral magnesium atom has 12 protons and 12 electrons, resulting in no net charge (0).
When magnesium forms an ion, it loses electrons to achieve a more stable electron configuration, typically losing 2 electrons.
Losing 2 electrons means the ion now has 12 protons but only 10 electrons, resulting in a net positive charge of +2.
Therefore, the charge of the magnesium ion is written as $\mathrm{Mg^{2+}}$, indicating a +2 charge.
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