Element Charges and Oxidation States Quiz

What is the usual charge of elements in Group 1 (Alkali Metals)?

• 1+

• 2+

• 3+

• 0

Answer explanation

Elements in Group 1, known as Alkali Metals, typically have a charge of 1+. This is because they have one electron in their outermost shell, which they readily lose to achieve a stable electron configuration.

Which group of elements typically has a charge of 0?

• Group 17 (Halogens)

• Group 18 (Noble Gases)

• Group 2 (Alkaline Earth Metals)

• Group 1 (Alkali Metals)

Answer explanation

Group 18 elements, known as Noble Gases, typically have a charge of 0 because they have a full valence shell, making them stable and unreactive. In contrast, other groups tend to gain or lose electrons, resulting in charges.

What is the charge of an oxygen atom?

• 2-

• 1+

• 0

• 3-

Answer explanation

An oxygen atom typically has 8 protons and 8 electrons, making it neutral (0 charge). However, when it gains 2 electrons to form an oxide ion, its charge becomes 2-.

Which element has a common charge of 3+?

• Neon

• Aluminum

• Sodium

• Chlorine

Answer explanation

Aluminum commonly has a charge of 3+ because it loses three electrons to achieve a stable electron configuration. In contrast, Neon, Sodium, and Chlorine do not typically exhibit a 3+ charge.

How can you find the charge of a single atom?

• By its smell

• By its color

• By its size

• By the number of protons minus the number of electrons

Answer explanation

The charge of a single atom is determined by the difference between the number of protons (positively charged) and electrons (negatively charged). Thus, the correct method is to calculate protons minus electrons.

What is the oxidation state of hydrogen in HCl?

• 0

• +1

• +2

• -1

Answer explanation

In HCl, hydrogen has an oxidation state of +1. This is because hydrogen typically has a +1 charge when bonded to nonmetals, and chlorine, being more electronegative, takes a -1 charge, balancing the overall charge.

Which element has a variable positive charge?

• Iron

• Fluorine

• Neon

• Helium

Answer explanation

Iron is known to have variable oxidation states, commonly +2 and +3, allowing it to exhibit a variable positive charge. In contrast, Fluorine, Neon, and Helium have fixed charges or are inert.

What is the charge of a chlorine atom?

• 0

• 3+

• 2+

• 1-

Answer explanation

A chlorine atom typically has 17 protons and 17 electrons, making it neutral (charge 0). However, when it gains an electron to achieve a stable electron configuration, it becomes negatively charged with a charge of 1-.

What is the charge of a noble gas atom?

• 0

• 1+

• 2-

• 3+

Answer explanation

Noble gas atoms have a full valence shell, making them stable and unreactive. Therefore, they have no net charge, which is why the correct answer is 0.

What is the charge of a sulfur atom in its most common state?

• 2-

• 0

• 1+

• 3+

Answer explanation

In its most common state, a sulfur atom has a charge of 2-. This is because sulfur typically gains two electrons to achieve a stable electron configuration, resulting in a negative charge.