Question

Consider the general valence electron configuration of ns2np5 and the following statements:

1. Elements with this electron configuration are expected to form -1 anions
2. Elements with this electron configuration are expected to have large positive electron affinities
3. Elements with this electron configuration are nonmetals
4. Elements with this electron configuration form acidic oxides.
Which statements are true?
A. 1, 3, and 4
B. 1 and 2
C. 1, 2, and 3
D. 2 and 3
E. All statements are true

Answer 1

The electron configuration ns2np5 refers to the Group 17 elements, also known as the halogens. Elements with this electron configuration are expected to form -1 anions and are nonmetals. The given statements about large positive electron affinities and forming acidic oxides are false.

Step-by-step explanation:

The electron configuration ns2np5 refers to the Group 17 elements, also known as the halogens. Based on this electron configuration, we can determine the correctness of the given statements:

1. Elements with this electron configuration are expected to form -1 anions: This statement is true. Halogens have seven valence electrons, and they gain one electron to achieve a noble gas configuration, resulting in a -1 charge.
2. Elements with this electron configuration are expected to have large positive electron affinities: This statement is false. Elements with this configuration actually have high electron affinities, which means they have a tendency to gain electrons, not lose them to form a positive charge.
3. Elements with this electron configuration are nonmetals: This statement is true. Halogens are nonmetals located on the right side of the periodic table.
4. Elements with this electron configuration form acidic oxides: This statement is false. Halogens, with the exception of chlorine, form mainly neutral or basic oxides, not acidic oxides.

Therefore, the correct statements are 1 and 3, so the answer is option A.