Question

An atom X has three electrons in its outermost shell. Which ion will most likely be formed by X?

Answer 1

Answer: X3+

Explanation:

Every atom aim to achieve stability by receiving electrons or giving their valence electrons in order to have a complete outermost shell of 2 (duplet) or 8 (octet structure).

In this case, the atom X will easily give off its three valence electrons to another atom(s), thereby forming a trivalent positive ion (X3+) with a stable duplet or octet structure (i.e an outermost shell with 2 or 8 electrons).

X --> X3+ + 3e-

Thus, due to the give away of three electrons (3e-), the atom X becomes X3+.