Which of the following represents the correct Lewis dot symbol for Be^{2+}?

• A. Be^{2+} \, \cdot\cdot\cdot\cdot
• B. Be^{2+}
• C. Be^{2+} \, \cdot\cdot
• D. Be^{2+} \, \cdot

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Recall that the Lewis dot symbol represents the valence electrons of an atom or ion as dots around the element's symbol.
2. Determine the number of valence electrons for a neutral beryllium (Be) atom. Beryllium is in group 2 of the periodic table, so it has 2 valence electrons.
3. Consider the charge on the ion Be^{2+}. A 2+ charge means the atom has lost 2 electrons, so subtract 2 electrons from the neutral atom's valence electrons.
4. Since Be^{2+} has lost both of its valence electrons, the Lewis dot symbol should show zero dots around the symbol Be.
5. Therefore, the correct Lewis dot symbol for Be^{2+} is just the element symbol 'Be' with the charge '^{2+}' and no dots around it.