Write the Lewis symbols for the ions in each ionic compound. d. K₂O

Key Concepts

Lewis Symbols

Lewis symbols, or Lewis dot structures, represent the valence electrons of an atom as dots around the element's symbol. This notation helps visualize how atoms bond and interact in chemical compounds. For ions, the Lewis symbol indicates the loss or gain of electrons, showing the resulting charge.

Ionic Compounds

Ionic compounds are formed through the electrostatic attraction between positively charged cations and negatively charged anions. In the case of K2O, potassium (K) donates electrons to oxygen (O), resulting in K+ and O2- ions. Understanding the formation of these ions is crucial for writing their Lewis symbols.

Valence Electrons

Valence electrons are the outermost electrons of an atom and are involved in chemical bonding. The number of valence electrons determines an element's reactivity and the type of bonds it can form. In ionic compounds, the transfer of valence electrons leads to the formation of stable electron configurations for the resulting ions.