Question

How many valence electrons are transferred to the oxygen atom from potassium atoms in the formation of the compound potassium oxide? Explain.

A. 0
B. 1
C. 2
D. 3

Answer 1

Answer: 2

Explanation: Potassium, K, has only 1 valence electron, 4s^1. Oxygen, O, needs 2 more electrons to complete its valence shell to make 8 electrons. That means 2 K atoms will combine with 1 O atom, to produce K2O, potassium oxide. Both K electrons are stolen by the single O atom, so 2 electrons are transferred.