Question

This is a list of the usual charges found on the ions of a series of elements:

V^3+, W^2+, X^+, Y^(-2-)
Which groups of elements are most likely to be metals?

A. X and Y
B. Y and Z
C. W and Z
D. X, Y, and Z
E. V, W, and X

Answer 1

The groups of elements that are most likely to be metals based on their ions V3+, W2+, and X+ are elements V, W, and X. Metals tend to form cations with positive charges, while non-metals form anions with negative charges.

Step-by-step explanation:

The question asks which groups of elements are most likely to be metals based on given ionic charges: V3+, W2+, X+, Y2-. Using the periodic table as a reference, we know that metals tend to form positive ions (cations), because they lose electrons. Non-metals, on the other hand, gain electrons to form negative ions (anions). Main-group metals often have a positive charge equal to their group number, while non-metals closer to the noble gases gain electrons to have a negative charge equal to the number of groups moved left from the noble gases.

Therefore, elements V, W, and X, with positive charges, are likely to be metals, making E (V, W, and X) the correct answer. Element Y, with a negative charge, is likely to be a non-metal. Additionally, transition metals like V can have variable charges which are typical of metals. Based on the trends of the periodic table and the concepts of ion formation, metals are more likely to exhibit a variety of positive ionic charges, such as those listed for elements V, W, and X.