Question

I

3. In words, explain what occurs in terms of electrons when
beryllium reacts with oxygen

Answer 1

Beryllium loses its two valence electrons to oxygen during reaction, forming beryllium ion (Be2+) and eventually leading to the creation of beryllium oxide (BeO).

Step-by-step explanation:

When beryllium reacts with oxygen, a transfer of electrons occurs. Beryllium is an element with two valence electrons in its 2s shell. During the reaction with oxygen, beryllium atom loses its two valence electrons to become a beryllium ion (Be2+). These electrons are then gained by oxygen atoms to fill their valence shells, thereby forming ionic bonds and a compound known as beryllium oxide (BeO).

Since beryllium is an alkaline earth metal with a relatively small size and high ionization energy, it forms molecular compounds more readily than ionic. In these molecular compounds, such as beryllium hydride (BeH2), beryllium does not achieve an octet structure but shares its electrons covalently.

Answer 2

Step-by-step explanation:

On the whole, the metals burn in oxygen to form a simple metal oxide. Beryllium is reluctant to burn unless it is in the form of dust or powder. Beryllium has a very strong (but very thin) layer of beryllium oxide on its surface, and this prevents any new oxygen getting at the underlying beryllium to react with it