Multiple Choice
In the periodic table, which type of element most commonly forms cations (positively charged ions)?
4. Atoms and Elements
Periodic Table: Main Group Element Charges
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Join thousands of students who trust us to help them ace their exams!Watch the first videoMultiple Choice
In the context of main-group elements, a cation with a charge of indicates that the element has done which of the following?
A
Lost protons
B
Gained valence electrons
C
Lost valence electrons
D
Gained neutrons
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand that a cation is a positively charged ion, which means it has more protons than electrons.
Recall that the charge of an ion is determined by the difference between the number of protons (positive charge) and electrons (negative charge).
Recognize that a charge of +2 means the ion has lost 2 electrons, since losing negatively charged electrons results in a net positive charge.
Note that protons are not lost or gained during ion formation because changing the number of protons would change the element itself.
Therefore, a cation with a +2 charge indicates the element has lost 2 valence electrons.
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