Question

What occurs when a magnesium atom becomes a magnesium ion?(1) Electrons are gained and the oxidation number increases.(2) Electrons are gained and the oxidation number decreases.(3) Electrons are lost and the oxidation number increases.(4) Electrons are lost and the oxidation number decreases.

Answer 1

(3) Electrons are lost and the oxidation number increases.

Step-by-step explanation

Magnesium atom reacts to form magnesium ion losing 2 electrons and thus has a +2 charge from a charge of zero. Therefore the oxidation number increases.