Calcium loses how many electrons to form an ion?

Unlock all questions

This demo includes only 20 questions. Upgrade to access hundreds of questions, flashcards, exam simulations, and disable ads.

Full question bankExam simulationsFlashcards
From $9.99Unlock all

Prepare for the Checkpoint Science Test with comprehensive quizzes, flashcards, and detailed explanations. Familiarize yourself with the exam format and topics to excel in your assessment. Elevate your confidence and knowledge!

Multiple Choice

Calcium loses how many electrons to form an ion?

Explanation:
Calcium forms ions by losing its outer electrons to reach a stable gas-like electron setup. It has two valence electrons in the 4s orbital, so removing both yields the noble-gas configuration [Ar], giving Ca2+. That makes two the correct amount to lose. If only one electron were lost, you’d get Ca+ with a partially filled outer shell, which is less stable. Losing three or four would remove electrons from inner shells and is much less favorable energetically.

Calcium forms ions by losing its outer electrons to reach a stable gas-like electron setup. It has two valence electrons in the 4s orbital, so removing both yields the noble-gas configuration [Ar], giving Ca2+. That makes two the correct amount to lose. If only one electron were lost, you’d get Ca+ with a partially filled outer shell, which is less stable. Losing three or four would remove electrons from inner shells and is much less favorable energetically.

More Multiple Choice Questions
Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy