Element X reacts with element Y to give a product containing X3+ ions and Y2-ions. (a) Is element X likely to be a metal or a nonmetal? Explain.

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Identify the charge of the ions formed by elements X and Y. Element X forms X3+ ions and element Y forms Y2- ions.

Recall that metals tend to lose electrons and form positively charged cations, while nonmetals tend to gain electrons and form negatively charged anions.

Analyze the ion charges: X3+ indicates that element X loses three electrons, which is characteristic of metals.

Consider the general trend in the periodic table where elements on the left side (metals) are more likely to lose electrons and form positive ions.

Conclude that element X, forming a X3+ ion, is likely to be a metal because it loses electrons, aligning with the behavior of metals.

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Ionic Compounds

Ionic compounds are formed when metals react with nonmetals, resulting in the transfer of electrons. Metals tend to lose electrons and form positive ions (cations), while nonmetals gain electrons to form negative ions (anions). In this case, X3+ indicates that element X is losing three electrons, suggesting it is a metal, while Y2- indicates that element Y is gaining two electrons, suggesting it is a nonmetal.

Metallic vs. Nonmetallic Properties

Metals are typically characterized by their ability to conduct electricity, malleability, ductility, and tendency to lose electrons during chemical reactions. In contrast, nonmetals are generally poor conductors, brittle in solid form, and tend to gain electrons. The formation of X3+ ions strongly indicates that element X exhibits metallic properties, as it readily loses electrons.

Oxidation States

The oxidation state of an element indicates the degree of oxidation (loss of electrons) it has undergone in a compound. In this scenario, X has an oxidation state of +3, which is typical for metals that can lose multiple electrons. Understanding oxidation states helps in predicting the behavior of elements in reactions and their classification as metals or nonmetals.

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