Which of the following correctly describes the two main ways in which atoms can satisfy the octet rule?

• A. By absorbing energy from their surroundings or by emitting photons.
• B. By forming metallic bonds or by undergoing nuclear fusion.
• C. By increasing their atomic number or by decreasing their atomic mass.
• D. By gaining or losing electrons to form ions, or by sharing electrons to form covalent bonds.

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that the octet rule states atoms tend to have eight electrons in their valence shell to achieve stability, similar to noble gases.
2. Recognize that atoms can satisfy the octet rule primarily in two ways: by transferring electrons or by sharing electrons.
3. When atoms gain or lose electrons, they form ions; this process is called ionic bonding. For example, a metal atom can lose electrons to become a cation, while a nonmetal can gain electrons to become an anion.
4. Alternatively, atoms can share electrons to fill their valence shells, forming covalent bonds. This sharing allows each atom to count the shared electrons toward its octet.
5. Note that other options like absorbing energy, metallic bonding, nuclear fusion, or changing atomic number/mass do not directly describe how atoms satisfy the octet rule.