What is the most common ionic charge of zinc when it forms compounds?

• A. 0
• B. +3
• C. +2
• D. +1

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Recall that zinc is a transition metal located in group 12 of the periodic table, and it commonly forms ions by losing electrons from its outermost shell.
2. Understand that the most common ionic charge corresponds to the number of electrons lost by the metal to achieve a stable electron configuration, often resembling the nearest noble gas.
3. Recognize that zinc typically loses two electrons from its 4s orbital, resulting in a +2 charge, which is the most stable and common oxidation state for zinc in compounds.
4. Note that other charges like +1 or +3 are uncommon or unstable for zinc due to its electron configuration and chemical behavior.
5. Therefore, the most common ionic charge of zinc when it forms compounds is +2.