Which of the following elements is most likely to form a +2 oxidation state?

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Q: Which of the following elements is most likely to form a +2 oxidation state?

Solution: Magnesium commonly forms a +2 oxidation state by losing two electrons.

Steps: 6

Step 1: Understand what oxidation state means. It refers to the charge of an atom when it loses or gains electrons.
Step 2: Identify the elements in the question. Look for elements that are likely to lose electrons.
Step 3: Recall that metals, especially those in group 2 of the periodic table, often form a +2 oxidation state.
Step 4: Recognize that magnesium is a group 2 metal.
Step 5: Know that magnesium can lose two electrons to achieve a stable electron configuration.
Step 6: Conclude that magnesium is the element most likely to form a +2 oxidation state.