Question

Nonmetals tend to gain electrons to form anions (negative ion)

Option 1: True
Option 2: False

Answer 1

Nonmetals gain electrons to form anions, which is a true statement, as nonmetals have a higher number of valence electrons and seek to achieve an octet, resulting in the formation of negatively charged ions during ionic bonding.

Step-by-step explanation:

The statement is true: nonmetals tend to gain electrons to form anions (negative ions). This is due to the fact that nonmetals typically have more valence electrons compared to metals and are closer to achieving an octet, which is a stable electron configuration resembling that of the nearest noble gas.

Elements in groups 16 and 17 of the periodic table are especially keen on gaining electrons to complete their octet, resulting in nonmetals forming anions when they engage in ionic bonding.

For example, elements from Group 17, which have seven valence electrons, will usually gain one electron to form anions with a −1 charge. Similarly, elements from Group 16 will gain two electrons to form anions with a −2 charge. By gaining these electrons, nonmetals are able to achieve a more stable, lower energy state.