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JAMB Chemistry 1982 Question 26

Question 26

Atomic Structure

If atom X with six electrons in its outermost shell combines with atom Y with only one electron in its outermost shell to form an ionic compound, then

  1. A.six atoms of X will combine with one of Y
  2. B.two atoms of X will combine with six of Y
  3. C.one atom of X will combine with two of Y
  4. D.two atoms of X will combine with one of Y
  5. E.one atom of X will combine with six of Y.
Show the answer and explanation

Answer: C (one atom of X will combine with two of Y)

Explanation

X needs 2 electrons (forming X2−) and each Y gives 1 (forming Y+), so the formula is Y2X: one X to two Y.