Other examples of ionic bonding
2 marks · NormalDescribe what happens to a magnesium atom when it forms an ion. Give the charge on the ion and explain your answer.
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The magnesium atom loses 2 electrons to form a Mg2+ ion.
Also accept: It loses two electrons to form a 2+ ion.; It forms an ion with a 2+ charge by losing 2 electrons.
Common mistakes: Incorrect charge such as 1+ or 2–; Saying magnesium gains electrons
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Marking points
B1 · 1 mark · States magnesium atom loses 2 electrons or similar
B2 · 1 mark · States the charge is 2+ or writes Mg2+
Worked solution
A magnesium atom has 2 electrons in its outer shell. It loses these 2 electrons when forming an ion.
The resulting ion has a 2+ charge, so it is Mg2+.