Question

A particular atom becomes more energetically stable when it loses a single electron. It is most likely an atom of which of the following elements?
magnesium (Mg)
cesium (Cs)
fluorine (F)
boron (B)

Answer 1

Answer: Cesium (Cs)

Explanation:

Elements lose or gain electrons in their valence shell so as to maintain stability by either forming duplets or octet configuration. I.e 2 electrons in its outer shell to form duplet or 8 in its outer shell to form octet configurations. All metals with exception of Metalloids lose electrons in its outer shell corresponding to its group number to form stability. I.e group 1 elements lose 1 electrons to form stability, group two elements lose 2 electrons, group 3 and so on. From the elements listed above, Cesium is a group 1 element and it will require to lose 1 electron so as to form stability. Magnesium (Mg) loses 2 electrons to form stability, Fluorine (F) a non metal from group (vii) requires 1 electron to be stable and boron a group (v) element would need 3 electrons to form stability.

Answer 2

The answer is Cesium (Cs)