Which group of the periodic table does not typically form ions?

• A. Alkaline earth metals (Group 2)
• B. Halogens (Group 17)
• C. Noble gases (Group 18)
• D. Alkali metals (Group 1)

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that ions are formed when atoms gain or lose electrons to achieve a more stable electron configuration, often resembling the nearest noble gas configuration.
2. Recall that Alkali metals (Group 1) typically lose one electron to form +1 ions, and Alkaline earth metals (Group 2) lose two electrons to form +2 ions.
3. Recognize that Halogens (Group 17) usually gain one electron to form -1 ions, as they are one electron short of a full outer shell.
4. Note that Noble gases (Group 18) have a full valence shell, making them very stable and generally unreactive, so they do not typically form ions.
5. Conclude that the group which does not typically form ions is the Noble gases (Group 18) due to their stable electron configuration.