Question

1. what ion will be formed by the phosphorus atom shown below when it has a stable set of valence electrons?

○ p5+
○ p3+
○ p5-
○ p3-

Explanation:

Step1: Determine phosphorus's valence electrons

Phosphorus has 5 valence electrons.

Step2: Identify stable electron - configuration goal

A stable electron - configuration often has 8 valence electrons (octet rule).

Step3: Calculate electron gain or loss

Phosphorus will gain 3 electrons to achieve an octet. Gaining electrons forms a negatively - charged ion.

Answer:

P3-