Final answer:
Elements in Group 17 (halogens) are less likely to lose an electron and once they form anions they are relatively stable, making them less inclined to form further bonds compared to groups 15 and 16.Correct answer is option C.
Step-by-step explanation:
The elements least likely to form bonds are found in Group 18, which is not among the options provided (A. 15, B. 16, C. 17). However, based on the given choices and available information, elements in Group 17 are less likely to lose an electron compared to other groups and are thus less likely to form bonds than elements in groups 15 and 16, as they are highly electronegative and will typically form anions by gaining an electron. The elements of Group 17, also known as halogens, are very reactive nonmetals, but once they form anions, they become relatively stable and are less inclined to form further bonds.
Furthermore, the fact that elements in Group 17 are strong oxidizing agents indicates they have a tendency to gain electrons and form stable anions. Therefore, compared to the elements in groups 15 and 16, which need to gain more electrons to achieve a stable electronic configuration, Group 17 elements need to gain just one electron, reducing their reactivity once they have achieved this.