Which of the following best explains why calcium forms Ca ions rather than Ca ions in…
CHEMISTRY · Single correct · A Level · Chemistry · Bonding · Bonding
Problem
Which of the following best explains why calcium forms Ca2+ ions rather than Ca+ ions in ionic compounds?
(a) The second ionization energy of calcium is lower than the first, so removing two electrons is energetically favorable.
(b) Calcium forms a +2 ion so that it can pair with two Cl− ions and make neutral CaCl2.
(c) Removing two electrons gives calcium the noble-gas electron configuration of argon, which is highly stable.
(d) Calcium’s 20 protons create such a strong positive nucleus that the atom must carry a +2 charge to remain balanced.