Question

Which species contains the lowest number of electrons? (remember that negative charges mean electrons added not removed).

A. F
B. O²--
C. S²-
D. Cl

Answer 1

The species with the lowest number of electrons is F (Fluorine), which has 9 electrons as a neutral atom.

Step-by-step explanation:

To determine which species contains the lowest number of electrons, we should first consider the number of electrons in the neutral atoms and then account for any added or removed electrons due to charges. Let's look at each option:

• F (Fluorine) has 9 protons, so the neutral atom also has 9 electrons.
• O²- (Oxygen) has 8 protons, and as a neutral atom, has 8 electrons. With a charge of -2, it has gained 2 additional electrons, bringing the total to 10 electrons.
• S²- (Sulfur) has 16 protons, and as a neutral atom, has 16 electrons. With a charge of -2, it has gained 2 additional electrons, bringing the total to 18 electrons.
• Cl (Chlorine) has 17 protons, and as a neutral atom, has 17 electrons. It has no additional charges mentioned, so it remains with 17 electrons.

Therefore, the species with the lowest number of electrons is F, the fluorine atom, with 9 electrons.