Which ionic compound is expected to form from combining the following pairs of elements? c. lithium and nitrogen

Key Concepts

Ionic Bonding

Ionic bonding occurs when atoms transfer electrons to achieve full outer electron shells, resulting in the formation of charged ions. Typically, metals lose electrons to become positively charged cations, while nonmetals gain electrons to become negatively charged anions. The electrostatic attraction between these oppositely charged ions forms a stable ionic compound.

Electron Configuration

Electron configuration describes the distribution of electrons in an atom's orbitals. Understanding the electron configuration of lithium (Li) and nitrogen (N) is crucial for predicting their bonding behavior. Lithium has one electron in its outer shell, while nitrogen has five, making it likely for lithium to lose its electron and nitrogen to gain three electrons to achieve a stable octet.

Formation of Ionic Compounds

The formation of ionic compounds involves the combination of cations and anions in a ratio that results in a neutral overall charge. In the case of lithium and nitrogen, lithium typically forms a +1 cation (Li⁺) and nitrogen forms a -3 anion (N³⁻). Therefore, three lithium ions are needed to balance one nitrogen ion, leading to the formation of lithium nitride (Li₃N).