Question

consider the possible bonding of the atom shown below. the atom would probably... select one: a. lose an electron. b. form a negative ion. c. gain an electron. d. remain stable and not form a bond.

Explanation:

1. First, identify the atom: it has 11 protons, so it is sodium (Na).
2. Count the electrons: 2 (inner shell) + 8 (middle shell) + 1 (outer shell) = 11 total, matching the proton count (neutral atom).
3. Atoms tend to gain/lose electrons to reach a full outer shell (8 electrons, or 2 for the first shell). Sodium has 1 valence electron, so it is energetically favorable to lose this single electron to have a full outer shell of 8 electrons, forming a positive ion (Na⁺).

Answer:

a. lose an electron.