Question

multiple - choice question
how is the ion magnesium mg+2 made?
the atom gains two electrons
the atom loses two electrons
rewatch

Explanation:

Step1: Recall ion - formation concept

Ions are formed by the gain or loss of electrons. A positively - charged ion (cation) is formed when an atom loses electrons, and a negatively - charged ion (anion) is formed when an atom gains electrons.

Step2: Analyze magnesium ion

Magnesium ion ($Mg^{2 + }$) is a cation with a + 2 charge. This means it has lost 2 electrons. When an atom loses electrons, the number of protons (positively - charged) is greater than the number of electrons (negatively - charged), resulting in a positive charge.

Answer:

the atom loses two electrons