Which group of elements is most likely to form ions with a +1 charge?

• A. Group 17 (halogens)
• B. Group 1 (alkali metals)
• C. Group 18 (noble gases)
• D. Group 2 (alkaline earth metals)

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that the charge of an ion formed by an element depends on how many electrons it gains or loses to achieve a stable electron configuration, usually resembling the nearest noble gas.
2. Recall that Group 1 elements (alkali metals) have one electron in their outermost shell, which they tend to lose easily to achieve a full octet in the previous shell.
3. Recognize that losing one electron results in a +1 charge, so elements in Group 1 typically form ions with a +1 charge.
4. Compare this with Group 17 (halogens), which tend to gain one electron to form -1 ions, and Group 2 (alkaline earth metals), which lose two electrons to form +2 ions.
5. Note that Group 18 (noble gases) are generally inert and do not form ions under normal conditions.