Question

You're comparing three different atoms. Atom A has 9 protons in the nucleus, Atom B has 10 protons, and Atom C has 11 protons.

a. Which atom would be least likely to react with other atoms? Why?

b. Which would form a positively charged ion? Why?

Answer 1

a. Atom B will be least likely to react with other atoms as it is contains 10 electrons in neutral state with E.C. : 2,8. Since it has an octet, it is stable and does not react with other atoms.

b. Atom C forms a positive ion. It contains 11 electrons in neutral state with E.C. : 2,8,1. To attain an octet, it will donate an electron to form a positive ion.