What is the typical ionic charge of halogens when they form ions?

• A. +1
• B. +2
• C. -1
• D. -2

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Recall that halogens are elements found in Group 17 of the periodic table, including fluorine, chlorine, bromine, iodine, and astatine.
2. Understand that halogens have seven valence electrons, which means they need one more electron to complete their octet and achieve a stable electron configuration.
3. When halogens form ions, they tend to gain one electron to fill their outermost shell, resulting in a negative charge.
4. Therefore, the typical ionic charge of halogens when they form ions is -1, indicating they are anions with one extra electron.
5. This is consistent across all halogens in their common ionic forms, such as Cl⁻, F⁻, Br⁻, and I⁻.