Question

qe 11. why does the element sodium (na) readily form compounds? select two correct answers. losing one electron creates a stable electron arrangement. gaining one electron creates a stable electron arrangement. sodium (na) has just one valence electron which is easily lost. sodium (na) is found in the most reactive period. group 1 elements are the least reactive and form compounds easily.

Explanation:

• Sodium (Na) is in Group 1 of the periodic table. It has one valence electron. Losing this one electron gives it a stable electron arrangement (like the noble gas neon).
• The statement "Gaining one electron creates a stable electron arrangement" is incorrect for sodium as it is more energetically favorable for it to lose an electron.
• Sodium is in Group 1 (not just a general "most reactive period" - the reactivity trend in groups is more relevant here). Group 1 elements are highly reactive (not the least reactive).

Answer:

Losing one electron creates a stable electron arrangement.
Sodium (Na) has just one valence electron which is easily lost.