Final answer:
The Lead (II) ion and Lead (IV) ion have charges of 2+ and 4+, respectively, indicating they have lost 2 and 4 electrons, respectively. This characteristic of multiple possible charges also applies to other elements like iron.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Lead (II) ion and the Lead (IV) ion have charges of 2+ and 4+, respectively. This notation indicates that the Lead (II) ion has lost two electrons, giving it a 2+ charge, and the Lead (IV) ion has lost four electrons, giving it a 4+ charge. As such, the correct answer to the question is option (a) - they have charges of 2 and 4, respectively.
When it comes to the charges atoms take when forming ions, there are a few elements, notably metals, that can form more than one possible charged ion. For example, calcium (Ca) typically forms a 2+ charge when it becomes an ion. Iodine (I) commonly forms a -1 charge. Iron (Fe), similar to lead, can exhibit multiple oxidation states, forming 2+ or 3+ cations. This variability in charge is important in the study of chemical reactions and compound formation.