An element's most stable ion forms an ionic compound with...

An element's most stable ion forms an ionic compound with bromine, having the formula $\mathrm{XBr}_{2}$. If the ion of element $\mathrm{X}$ has a mass number of 230 and has 86 electrons, what is the identity of the element, and how many neutrons does it have?

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Key Concepts

Atomic Number

The atomic number represents the number of protons in the nucleus of an atom, and for a neutral atom, it matches the number of electrons. This concept is crucial for identifying elements and determining their chemical properties.

Mass Number

The mass number is the total count of protons and neutrons in an atom's nucleus. It is used to distinguish between different isotopes of an element, which have the same atomic number but different numbers of neutrons.

Neutron Number Calculation

The number of neutrons in an atom can be determined by subtracting the atomic number (protons) from the mass number. This helps in identifying the specific isotope of an element.

Ion Formation and Charge

Ions are formed when atoms gain or lose electrons, resulting in a net electrical charge. In ionic compounds, the ratio of ions is determined by their charges so that the overall compound is electrically neutral.

Ionic Compound Stoichiometry

The stoichiometry of an ionic compound reflects the ratio of cations to anions required to balance the overall charges. The chemical formula indicates the fixed proportions of the ions involved.

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