Final answer:
The element X in both ions is Krypton (Kr) with a valency of 2. It can form two covalent bonds.
Step-by-step explanation:
In order to determine the identity of the element X in the given ions, we need to look at the number of electrons and the charge of the ions.
(a) The cation x²⁺ has 38 electrons. We can determine the atomic number by subtracting the charge from the number of electrons. In this case, 38 - 2 = 36. Looking at the periodic table, we find that the element with 36 protons is Krypton (Kr).
(b) The anion X with 35 electrons has a charge of 1-. To determine the atomic number, we add the charge to the number of electrons. In this case, 35 + 1 = 36. Again, referring to the periodic table, we find that the element with 36 protons is Krypton (Kr).
(c) The valency of element X in both cases is 2.
(d) The number of covalent bonds in the molecule depends on the valency of the element X. Since X has a valency of 2, it can form 2 covalent bonds.
(e) Based on the information given, we can suggest the element X to be Krypton (Kr).