Which of the following represents the composition of the ion typically formed by fluorine?

• A. 10 protons, 9 electrons
• B. 8 protons, 9 electrons
• C. 9 protons, 8 electrons
• D. 9 protons, 10 electrons

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Recall that the number of protons in an atom defines the element. Fluorine has an atomic number of 9, which means it has 9 protons.
2. Understand that the ion typically formed by fluorine is the fluoride ion, which occurs when fluorine gains one electron to achieve a full outer shell.
3. Since a neutral fluorine atom has 9 electrons (equal to its 9 protons), gaining one electron means the fluoride ion has 10 electrons.
4. Therefore, the composition of the fluoride ion is 9 protons and 10 electrons.
5. Review the options and identify that the correct composition for the fluoride ion is 9 protons and 10 electrons.