Question

halogens tend to form anions because
answer:
a losing electrons will fill their octet faster than gaining them.
b gaining electrons will fill their octet faster than losing them.
c halogen element ionization energies are lower than transition metal ionization energies.
d halogen atomic radii tend to be larger than their corresponding ionic radii.
e halogen atomic radii tend to be smaller than their corresponding ionic radii.

Explanation:

Halogens have 7 valence electrons. To achieve a stable octet (8 - electron configuration), it is easier for them to gain 1 electron (as gaining 1 electron is simpler than losing 7 electrons). This makes them form anions (negatively - charged ions). Option A is incorrect because losing electrons is not the way for halogens to fill their octet easily. Option C about ionization energies is not relevant to why they form anions. Option D is incorrect as halogen atomic radii are smaller than ionic radii (when they gain electrons, the ionic radius increases due to electron - electron repulsion). Option E is a correct statement about atomic and ionic radii but does not explain why they form anions.

Answer:

B. gaining electrons will fill their octet faster than losing them.