Multiple Choice
Which two ions are most abundant in ocean water?
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2. Atoms & Elements
Ions
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Which process is required for magnesium to form the ion Mg^{2+}?
A
Magnesium must gain two neutrons.
B
Magnesium must lose two electrons.
C
Magnesium must gain two electrons.
D
Magnesium must lose two protons.
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand that ions are formed by the loss or gain of electrons, not protons or neutrons, because protons define the element and neutrons affect isotopes but do not change charge.
Recall that magnesium (Mg) is a metal that typically forms positive ions by losing electrons to achieve a stable electron configuration.
Recognize that the ion Mg^{2+} indicates a magnesium ion with a 2+ charge, meaning it has lost two electrons.
Eliminate options involving gaining neutrons or electrons, or losing protons, since these do not correspond to the formation of Mg^{2+}.
Conclude that the correct process is magnesium losing two electrons to form the Mg^{2+} ion.
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