How many bonds and lone pairs can be found around Mg atoms?

• A. 2, 1
• B. 2, 0
• C. 3, 1
• D. 3, 0

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the electronic configuration of magnesium (Mg). Magnesium is in Group 2 of the periodic table, which means it has two valence electrons.
2. Recognize that magnesium typically forms ionic bonds by losing its two valence electrons to achieve a stable electron configuration similar to the nearest noble gas, neon.
3. Consider the common compounds formed by magnesium, such as magnesium oxide (MgO) or magnesium chloride (MgCl2), where magnesium forms bonds by donating its electrons.
4. Identify that magnesium, when forming bonds, does not retain lone pairs because it loses its valence electrons to form stable ionic compounds.
5. Conclude that magnesium typically forms two bonds and has zero lone pairs around it in its common ionic compounds.