Two elements, A and B, have the following configurations — A: 2, 8, 5 B: 2, 8, 7 (i) Which element is more reactive? (ii) Will A and B form ionic or covalent bonds when they combine? Explain using electron transfer or sharing. (iii) Predict the formula of the compound they would form.
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- (i) B is more reactive — it needs only 1 electron to complete its octet.
- (ii) A has 5 valence electrons and B has 7; both are non-metals, so they share electrons → a covalent bond.
- (iii) A needs 3 electrons and B needs 1, so the formula is AB₃ .