Multiple Choice
How many protons (p) and electrons (e) are found in a Se^{2-} ion?
2
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2. Atoms & Elements
Ions
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Do positive ions (cations) tend to be formed by metals or nonmetals?
A
Nonmetals
B
Both metals and nonmetals equally
C
Metals
D
Noble gases
Verified step by step guidance1
Recall that ions are formed when atoms gain or lose electrons to achieve a more stable electron configuration, often resembling the nearest noble gas configuration.
Understand that metals tend to lose electrons because they have relatively few electrons in their outermost shell, making it easier to form positive ions (cations).
Nonmetals, on the other hand, tend to gain electrons to form negative ions (anions) because they have more electrons in their outer shell and are closer to filling it.
Noble gases are generally inert and do not tend to form ions because they already have a full outer electron shell, making them very stable.
Therefore, positive ions (cations) are most commonly formed by metals, as they lose electrons to achieve stability.
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