Notes: Ions11/7

EQ: How do you find the ionic charge of an

atom?

The Rule of 8

In general, atoms are most stable whenthey have 8 electrons in their valence shell.

Atoms will gain or lose electrons until they have a full valence shell. When atoms gain or lose

electrons, they gain a net charge.

Charged atoms are called ions.

Ions - metals

“Metals are losers... I’m positive!”With 1-3 valence electrons… it is easiest to lose valence e-

Metals lose (-) charge…making positive ions!

(+) charge = Group #Li, Na = +1 Mg, Ca = +2…

Ions … Non-metalsNon-metals gain e-

With 5-7 valence electrons… it is easier to steal electrons

Gain electrons negative ions!

Calculating charge:charge = [Group# - 8] F, Cl = -1 O, S = -2…

Oxygen: 6A – 8 = -2 charge

Noble Gases

8A elements have a full valence shell.No gain, no loss, no ions

Notation

Ionic charge is written in the top right corner.

Li+ Mg2+ P3-

O2-

(+) metals (-) nonmetals