Question 1

How do you determine an element's charge when it forms an ion (generally)?

Accepted Answer

Look at the number column (excluding transition metals) for the first three columns

Inverse for the final four columns

Question 2

Why do elements tend to get certain charges when they become ions?

Accepted Answer

The octet rule says that most elements want to have 8 electrons in their valence shell

Elements on the right will gain new electrons (become negative) to fill this

Elements on the left will lose electrons (become positive) to have the previous shell filled

Question 3

What are cations?

Accepted Answer

Positively charged ions

(lost electrons)

Question 4

What are anions?

Accepted Answer

Negatively charged ions

(gained electrons)

Question 5

What is the charge of ionic compounds?

Accepted Answer

Neutral.  The anions and cations must always balance out

Question 6

How do you find the ionic compound of two elements?

Accepted Answer

Find the cation and its charge

Find the anion and its charge

Balance the # of cations and anions so that the charges equal 0

Name it with the cation name, then the anion name + ide

Valence Electrons and Ionic Compounds, AP Chemistry Flashcards