Predict the charge of the ion formed by each element. c. F

Key Concepts

Ion Formation

Ions are charged particles that form when atoms gain or lose electrons. Elements tend to form ions to achieve a stable electron configuration, often resembling the nearest noble gas. Metals typically lose electrons to form cations, while nonmetals gain electrons to form anions.

Electronegativity

Electronegativity is a measure of an atom's ability to attract and hold onto electrons. In the context of ion formation, elements with high electronegativity, like fluorine, are more likely to gain electrons and form negative ions (anions). This property helps predict the charge of the ion an element will form.

Fluorine's Charge

Fluorine is a highly electronegative nonmetal that typically gains one electron to achieve a full outer shell, resulting in a charge of -1. This means that when fluorine forms an ion, it becomes F-, indicating it has gained an electron and carries a negative charge.