Question

A magnesium (Mg) atom gives one electron to two atoms of another element, then it takes on a 2+ charge. The two atoms of the other element each form a 1− charge. As a result, the magnesium ion and the two ions of the other element attract and form an ionic bond. Given the scenario, which of the following elements could behave as described and have two of its atoms receive magnesium's electrons?
a. oxygen (O).
b. sulfur (S).
c. chlorine (Cl).
d. sodium (Na).

Answer 1

Answer: chlorine (Cl).

Explanation:

Chlorine (Cl) has an atomic number of 17, and an electronic configuration of 1s2, 2s2 2p6, 3s2 3p5 that shows that 1 electron is needed to complete its p-orbital (since p-orbital take a maximum of 6 electrons)

Cl(g) + e- --> Cl-(aq)

On the other hand, Magnesium (Mg) is with two outermost electrons that it could give away to two chlorine atoms while forming Magnesium chloride MgCl2.

Mg(s) --> Mg2+(aq) + 2e-

Thus, the reaction of magnesium ion and chlorine ion forms an ionic bond in MgCl2

Mg2+(aq) + 2Cl-(aq) --> MgCl2(aq)

Therefore, Chlorine is the only element capable of receiving two electrons from magnesium and forming ionic bond.