What is the charge on a magnesium ion (Mg)?

• A. 2+
• B. 3+
• C. 1+
• D. 1-

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Recall that magnesium (Mg) is an element in Group 2 of the periodic table, also known as the alkaline earth metals.
2. Elements in Group 2 typically lose two electrons to achieve a stable electron configuration similar to the nearest noble gas.
3. When magnesium loses two electrons, it forms a cation with a charge of +2, written as \(\mathrm{Mg}^{2+}\).
4. The charge on the magnesium ion corresponds to the number of electrons lost, which is 2 in this case.
5. Therefore, the charge on a magnesium ion is \$2+$.