Question

does the model correctly represent the electron dot diagram of magnesium? why or why not? select two options. mg yes, because the chemical symbol of magnesium is mg. no, because the chemical symbol of magnesium is mn. yes, because magnesium has two valence electrons. no, because magnesium has seven valence electrons. no, because both of the dots should be on top of the chemical symbol.

Explanation:

• The chemical symbol of magnesium is Mg, so the second option (saying the symbol is Mn) is incorrect.
• Magnesium has 2 valence electrons. In an electron - dot diagram, the dots represent valence electrons. Here, there are only 2 dots but they are not placed correctly. In a proper electron - dot diagram for an atom with 2 valence electrons (like Mg), the two dots should be placed on the same side (e.g., both on top) of the chemical symbol.

Answer:

• No, because the chemical symbol of magnesium is Mn. (This option is wrong as the symbol is Mg, but we are analyzing the options)
• No, because both of the dots should be on top of the chemical symbol.