Which of the following elements will most likely form an ion with a -2 charge?
A)Na
B)S
C)Ne
D)Mg
E)Cl

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

An ion with a -2 charge indicates that the element has gained two electrons. The element that is most likely to gain two electrons is the one that is closest to having a full octet (eight electrons in its valence shell). Among the options given, sulfur (S) is the element that has six valence electrons and needs two more to complete its octet, making it the most likely to gain two electrons and form an ion with a -2 charge.

Which of the Following Elements Will Most Likely Form an Ion