Which of the following elements is most likely to form a cation?
Practice Questions
Q1
Which of the following elements is most likely to form a cation?
Fluorine
Sodium
Chlorine
Oxygen
Questions & Step-by-Step Solutions
Which of the following elements is most likely to form a cation?
Correct Answer: Sodium
Step 1: Understand what a cation is. A cation is a positively charged ion that forms when an atom loses one or more electrons.
Step 2: Identify the elements in the question. Look for elements that are metals, especially those in Group 1 of the periodic table, known as alkali metals.
Step 3: Recognize that sodium (Na) is an alkali metal. Alkali metals are known for easily losing one electron.
Step 4: Conclude that since sodium can lose an electron easily, it is most likely to form a cation.