Question
Non-metal atoms form ions by: Gaining one or more electrons to form a negative ion Losing one or more electrons to form a negative ion Losing one or more electrons to form a positive ion Gaining one or more electrons to form a positive ion
Answer
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Elen
Professional · Tutor for 6 years
Answer
Gaining one or more electrons to form a negative ion
Explanation
In reaction and bonding process, there is an exchange or sharing of electrons between atoms. Non-metal atoms incline towards completeness in their outermost electron shell. These atoms 'achieve' this by gaining electrons from other atoms to complete their outermost shell, which participates in making them stable. As they gain an additional electron(s), they also gain a negative charge, because electrons are negatively charged. This principle refers to the electron affinity of the elements, a chemical phenomena common among nonmetal elements and makes them form negative ions. This hints thoroughly that nonmetal atoms form ions by attracting electrons.