12. which elements on the periodic table lose electrons most easily (metals or nonmetals)? why?

Brief Explanations:

Metals have relatively low ionization energies. They have fewer valence - electrons and aim to achieve a stable electron configuration by losing these electrons. Non - metals, on the other hand, have higher ionization energies and tend to gain electrons to achieve a stable configuration.

Answer:

Metals. Because metals have low ionization energies and fewer valence - electrons, making it easier for them to lose electrons to achieve a stable electron configuration.