For each of the following atomic numbers, use the periodic...

For each of the following atomic numbers, use the periodic table to write the formula (including the charge) for the simple ion that the element is most likely to form in ionic compounds.
a. 13
c. 56
e. 87
b. 34
d. 7
f. 35

Labs

Want to see this concept in action?

NEW

Explore this concept interactively to see how it behaves as you change inputs.

View Labs

Key Concepts

Ion Formation and Valence Electrons

Ions are formed when atoms gain or lose electrons to achieve a stable electron configuration, typically that of the nearest noble gas. In ionic compounds, metals usually lose electrons to become positively charged cations, while nonmetals tend to gain electrons to form negatively charged anions. The position of an element in the periodic table helps predict how many electrons it will gain or lose.

Determining Ionic Charges

The ionic charge is determined by the number of electrons an element loses or gains during ion formation. For example, elements in certain groups of the periodic table often form ions with predictable charges—alkali metals in Group 1 typically form +1 ions, alkaline earth metals in Group 2 form +2 ions, and nonmetals in Groups 15, 16, and 17 usually form anions with charges of -3, -2, and -1, respectively—reflecting the pursuit of a full valence shell.

Periodic Table Trends

The periodic table organizes elements based on their atomic number and electron configuration, leading to periodic trends in properties such as ion formation. Elements within the same group tend to exhibit similar chemical behaviors because they have the same number of valence electrons, which significantly influence the types and charges of the ions they form.

Please give Ace some feedback