Difficulty: Medium

Average Score: 61%

If an atom has one valence electron, which of the following characteristics will it exhibit when reacting with other elements?

Rationale

It is likely to lose one electron to form a positive ion.

Atoms with one valence electron are typically eager to achieve a stable electron configuration, which they can accomplish by losing that single electron to form a positively charged ion. This tendency is a characteristic feature of alkali metals and similar elements.

A (It will resist forming any bonds due to a full outer shell.) YOUR ANSWER

This statement is inaccurate because an atom with one valence electron does not have a full outer shell; instead, it is one electron short of achieving stability. Atoms with full outer shells, like the noble gases, are indeed unreactive, but those with one valence electron are quite the opposite.

B (It has a high ionization energy and will not lose its electron easily.) YOUR ANSWER

This choice is incorrect because elements with one valence electron typically have low ionization energies, making it easier for them to lose that electron. Such elements readily form positive ions, contrary to the notion presented in this option.

C (It is likely to lose one electron to form a positive ion.) CORRECT

As mentioned, atoms with one valence electron tend to lose that electron to reach a more stable electronic configuration, forming a positive ion. This behavior is common in alkali metals, which readily react to achieve stability.

D (It is unreactive.) YOUR ANSWER

This option is misleading, as atoms with one valence electron are very reactive. They actively seek to lose that electron during chemical reactions, differentiating them from unreactive elements.

Conclusion

Atoms with one valence electron exhibit a strong tendency to lose that electron and form positive ions, thereby participating readily in chemical reactions. This characteristic is crucial in understanding the behavior of alkali metals and other similar elements, which strive for a stable electron configuration by becoming positively charged. The other options incorrectly describe the properties of such atoms, highlighting the importance of valence electrons in determining reactivity.

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