Ions of Group 0 Elements

We have learnt that we can predict which ions of an element will occur naturally, by looking at an atom of that element and then working out what it would need to do to form a full outer shell.

Atoms of elements in group 0 have full outer shells already. For example, an argon atom is shown below. It has three electrons shells, and the third shell (the outer shell) contains 8 electrons, which equal to its capacity.

Diagram of an argon atom. It has three shells and the third shell contains 8 electrons, meaning that it is full.

An argon atom. It has a full outer shell meaning that it does not usually form ions.

The same is true for all atoms of group 0 elements: the outer shell is always full.

Since the atoms of group 0 elements don't need to gain or lose any electrons in order to form a full outer shell, we would predict that they do not naturally form ions.

This prediction is correct, there are no naturally occurring ions of group 0 elements.

Flashcards

Flashcards help you memorise information quickly. Copy each question onto its own flashcard and then write the answer on the other side. Testing yourself on these regularly will enable you to learn much more quickly than just reading and making notes.

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Which ions of group 0 elements occur naturally? Why?

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