An element E has the electron configuration [Ar]3d¹⁰4s²4p³. What is the formula for the fluoride of E most likely to be? A) EF₆ B) EF₈ C) EF₃ D) EF E) EF₂

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Quizplus · Accepted Answer

To determine the formula for the fluoride of E, we need to figure out the charge on E. Based on its electron configuration, we can see that E has 2 valence electrons in its outermost shell (3s1 + 3p1). To achieve a stable octet, E will want to gain one electron, giving it a -1 charge. The formula for fluoride is F-, which has a -1 charge. To form a compound with a neutral charge, one E atom would bond with one F- ion, giving the formula EF. Therefore, the answer is (C) EF₃ (which shows the correct charge and number of electrons for E and F in the compound, and the correct formula for fluoride).

An Element E Has the Electron Configuration [Ar]3d104s24p3

An Element E Has the Electron Configuration [Ar]3d¹⁰4s²4p³