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Chapter 8: Problem 63

Considering their electron affinities, do you think it is possible for the alkali metals to form an anion like \(\mathrm{M}^{-},\) where \(\mathrm{M}\) represents an alkali metal?

Short Answer

Expert verified
No, it is not possible for alkali metals to form an anion, M^-, due to their low electron affinities. They tend to lose their electron and form a cation (M^+) instead since this results in a stable electron configuration for them.

Step by step solution

01

Understanding Alkali Metals and Electron Affinities

Alkali metals are elements from Group 1 of the periodic table. They have 1 electron in their outermost energy level and they tend to lose this electron in order to achieve a stable electron configuration. When they lose this electron, they form a positive ion (or cation). Electron affinity is the amount of energy released when an electron is added to a neutral atom. Alkali metals have low electron affinities because they do not readily accept an extra electron.
02

Connecting electron affinities to ion formation

An atom forms an anion, a negatively charged ion, by gaining electrons. Since alkali metals have low electron affinities, they do not readily accept extra electrons. Instead, they prefer to lose their outermost electron to become a cation. This is why alkali metals are commonly found as positive ions in chemical reactions.
03

Answering the question

With these facts, we can say that it is very unlikely for alkali metals to form anions (M^-). Their characteristic and preferred state is to lose an electron and form cations (M^+). Their low electron affinities mean they won't readily accept an extra electron to form an anion.

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