Question

which statement correctly explains how magnesium and chlorine combine to form magnesium chloride? a. a cl atom donates two electrons to a mg atom b. an mg atom donates two electrons to a cl atom c. a cl atom donates one electron to each of the two mg atoms d. an mg atom donates one electron to each of the two cl atoms

Explanation:

Magnesium (Mg) has a +2 valence as it is in Group 2 of the periodic table and chlorine (Cl) has a -1 valence as it is in Group 17. To form magnesium chloride (MgCl₂), an Mg atom donates its two valence - electrons, with each Cl atom accepting one electron.

Answer:

D. An Mg atom donates one electron to each of the two Cl atoms