What does a calcium atom do when it bonds with another atom?
Understand the Problem
The question is asking about the behavior of a calcium atom when it forms a chemical bond with another atom. Specifically, it's likely looking for whether calcium would gain, lose, or share electrons during bonding and what type of ion it would form, if any.
Answer
Calcium loses two electrons to achieve a stable electron configuration, forming a +2 ion.
When calcium bonds with other atoms, it loses two electrons to achieve a stable electron configuration, similar to the noble gas argon, resulting in a +2 ion.
Answer for screen readers
When calcium bonds with other atoms, it loses two electrons to achieve a stable electron configuration, similar to the noble gas argon, resulting in a +2 ion.
More Information
Calcium's tendency to lose two electrons makes it highly reactive with elements that readily accept electrons, such as oxygen and chlorine. This is why calcium is commonly found in ionic compounds like calcium oxide (CaO) and calcium chloride (CaCl2).
Tips
A common mistake is to think calcium gains electrons, but it always loses two to form a positive ion. Remembering its position in group 2 of the periodic table can help, as elements in this group tend to lose two electrons.
Sources
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