Chemistry, atoms, ions, bonds / principles and exploration
Electron transfer and ions — principles and investigation
When an atom loses or gains electrons, the nucleus does not change, but the balance of charges changes. Select the number of electrons exchanged with an element and compare the number of protons and electrons. This is an ion formation experiment that connects the signs of positive and negative ions with the direction of electron movement.
How does it work?
If it loses an electron, it becomes a positive ion, and if it gains an electron, it becomes a negative ion. The element does not change due to electron transfer.
Ionic charge = number of protons − number of electrons
Try this investigation
- Decide on the type and number of electrons and perform electron transfer. The box on the right is a storage area that collects electrons exchanged and received.
- Record the movement of one electron for Na and Cl, respectively. Compare the direction of losing and the direction of gaining.
- Mg and O exchange two electrons. Compare the size of charge with one movement of Na·Cl.
Interpreting your results
What is the number of electrons and charge after Mg loses 2 electrons?
Mg has 12 protons and 10 electrons, so its charge is +2e.
Assumptions and limitations
The shell is a schematic diagram for counting electrons and is not the actual shape of electrons rotating in circular orbits. Storage and movement paths are for illustration purposes only. Ionization energy, electron affinity, and reaction spontaneity are not calculated.