Multiple Choice
What is an atom that gains electrons in order to become stable called?
2. Atoms & Elements
Ions
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What happens when a sodium atom becomes a sodium ion?
A
It gains an electron to form a negatively charged ion.
B
It loses an electron to form a positively charged ion.
C
It loses a proton to form a negatively charged ion.
D
It gains a proton to form a positively charged ion.
Verified step by step guidance1
Identify the atomic structure of a sodium atom: Sodium (Na) has an atomic number of 11, meaning it has 11 protons and 11 electrons in its neutral state.
Understand the concept of ion formation: Atoms form ions by gaining or losing electrons to achieve a stable electron configuration, often resembling the nearest noble gas.
Determine the electron configuration of a neutral sodium atom: The electron configuration is 1s² 2s² 2p⁶ 3s¹, with one electron in the outermost shell (3s orbital).
Recognize the process of sodium becoming a sodium ion: Sodium tends to lose one electron from its outermost shell to achieve the electron configuration of neon, a noble gas.
Conclude the charge of the sodium ion: By losing one electron, sodium becomes a positively charged ion (Na⁺) with a charge of +1, as it now has 11 protons and 10 electrons.
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