Question

Considering only ions with charges of 1, 2, -1 and -2, or neutral atoms, give the symbols for 4 species that are isoelectronic with the magnesium ion, mg2?

Answer 1

Four species that are isoelectronic with the magnesium ion, mg2+, include neon, fluoride ion, sodium ion, and aluminum ion.

Step-by-step explanation:

When determining species that are isoelectronic with the magnesium ion, Mg2+, we need to consider ions and neutral atoms with the same number of electrons. Since the magnesium ion, with a charge of 2+, has lost 2 electrons, we need to look for species that also have 10 electrons. Here are four examples:

1. Neon (Ne) is a neutral atom and has 10 electrons.
2. Fluoride ion (F-) has gained 1 electron, and the resulting charge is -1. It has 10 electrons as well.
3. Sodium ion (Na+) has lost 1 electron, and the resulting charge is +1. It also has 10 electrons.
4. Aluminum ion (Al3+) has lost 3 electrons, and the resulting charge is +3. Like the other examples, it has 10 electrons.

These four species are isoelectronic with the magnesium ion because they all have the same number of electrons, which is 10.