Question

not all atoms can be bonded together at random and form stable configurations. use the periodic table above to determine which of the following molecules are stable. (1 point) mgo ph₃ cabr naf₂

Explanation:

To determine stable molecules, we analyze the valence and bonding:

• MgO: Mg (Group 2, +2) and O (Group 16, -2) have charges that balance (1:1 ratio), forming an ionic bond. Stable.
• PH₃: P (Group 15, 3 valence electrons) bonds with 3 H (1 each), satisfying octet/duet. Stable (like NH₃).
• CaBr: Ca (Group 2, +2) and Br (Group 17, -1) need a 1:2 ratio (CaBr₂) for charge balance. CaBr is unstable.
• NaF₂: Na (Group 1, +1) and F (Group 17, -1) need a 1:1 ratio (NaF). NaF₂ has unbalanced charges. Unstable.

Answer:

• MgO (stable)
• PH₃ (stable)
• CaBr (unstable)
• NaF₂ (unstable)

So the stable molecules are MgO and PH₃. The checkboxes for MgO and PH₃ should be selected.