Final answer:
To form a neutral ionic compound, 1 beryllium atom (Be²+) and 1 sulfur atom (S²-) are required as they will combine in a one-to-one ratio to balance each other's charges.
Step-by-step explanation:
The student asks about the number of beryllium (Be) and sulfur (S) atoms required to form a neutral ionic compound. Beryllium has an electron configuration of 1s²2s², which means it tends to lose two electrons to achieve a stable configuration, forming a Be²+ ion. Sulfur tends to gain two electrons to complete its valence shell, forming an S²- ion. Therefore, one Be²+ ion can balance out one S²- ion. The correct answer is that it would require 1 Be atom and 1 S atom to form a neutral ionic compound, which aligns with option (a).