Question

which image depicts the initial atoms when calcium and sulfur form an ionic compound? a. ca s b. ca s c. ca s

Explanation:

Step1: Recall ionic - bond formation

In an ionic - bond formation between calcium (Ca) and sulfur (S), calcium is a metal in Group 2 and has 2 valence electrons. Sulfur is a non - metal in Group 16 and has 6 valence electrons. Calcium will lose its 2 valence electrons to sulfur to achieve a stable electron configuration.

Step2: Analyze electron - dot structures

In the initial state before the bond formation, calcium has 2 valence electrons and sulfur has 6 valence electrons. Option B shows calcium with 2 valence electrons and sulfur with 6 valence electrons. Option A shows the transfer of electrons (which is the process of bond formation, not the initial state). Option C shows a covalent - like sharing structure which is incorrect for an ionic compound of Ca and S.

Answer:

B. Ca with 2 valence electrons and S with 6 valence electrons