Formation of Ions

Question 1

explain how ions are formed

Answer 1

Atoms need a full outer shell of electrons in order to be stable. One way they can achieve this is by gaining or losing electrons.

Those that gain electrons become ions with a negative charge, whilst those that lose electrons become ions with a positive charge.

Question 2

Atoms in group 5 have 5 electrons in their outer shell. This means they need to gain 3 electrons to be stable, forming an ion with a charge of _____

Answer 2

-3.