Question

the formation of lithium fluoride (seen here) is due to
a a stronger pull by the lithium atom on its valence electron.
b increased stability in the completion of fluorines outer shell.
c the addition of an outer (higher) energy level in the fluoride ion.
d decreased attraction between the lithium and fluoride ions.

Explanation:

Lithium fluoride forms when lithium donates an electron to fluorine. Fluorine, which has 7 valence electrons, gains one electron to complete its outer shell (8 electrons), achieving a more stable electron configuration. This stability drives the formation of the ionic bond in lithium fluoride.

• Option A is incorrect because lithium has a weaker pull on its valence electron (it tends to lose it).
• Option C is wrong as the fluoride ion does not add a new outer energy level (it just fills the existing one).
• Option D is false since the attraction between lithium and fluoride ions increases (ionic bond formation).

Answer:

B. increased stability in the completion of fluorine’s outer shell.