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Multiple Choice
Which element possesses a -2 charge when it combines with other elements?
A
Ca
B
Mn
C
P
D
Se
E
F
Verified step by step guidance
1
Identify the common oxidation states of the elements listed: Calcium (Ca), Manganese (Mn), Phosphorus (P), Selenium (Se), and Fluorine (F).
Recall that elements in Group 16 (Chalcogens) typically form a -2 charge when they gain two electrons to achieve a stable electron configuration.
Determine the group number for each element: Ca is in Group 2, Mn is in Group 7, P is in Group 15, Se is in Group 16, and F is in Group 17.
Recognize that Selenium (Se), being in Group 16, commonly forms a -2 charge when it combines with other elements, similar to other chalcogens like Oxygen (O) and Sulfur (S).
Conclude that Selenium (Se) is the element that typically possesses a -2 charge when it combines with other elements, as it gains two electrons to complete its valence shell.