Which type of elements typically form anions?

• A. Transition metals
• B. Alkali metals
• C. Noble gases
• D. Nonmetals

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that anions are negatively charged ions formed when atoms gain electrons.
2. Recall that metals tend to lose electrons to form cations, while nonmetals tend to gain electrons to form anions.
3. Identify the categories of elements: Transition metals and alkali metals are metals, which typically form cations, not anions.
4. Noble gases are generally inert and do not commonly form ions because they have a full valence shell.
5. Therefore, nonmetals, which have higher electronegativities and tend to gain electrons, typically form anions.