26 Nonmetals tend to gain electrons and form

26 Nonmetals tend to gain electrons and form negative ions, also known as anions. This occurs because they have high electronegativity values, meaning they are eager to attract electrons to fill their outer electron shells. When a nonmetal gains one or more electrons, it becomes negatively charged, which helps it achieve a more stable electronic configuration.

In the real world, this behavior of nonmetals is crucial in various chemical reactions, especially when forming compounds. For instance, when chlorine (a nonmetal) gains an electron, it forms a chloride ion (Cl⁻), which readily combines with sodium (a metal that loses electrons) to generate table salt (NaCl). This ionic bond formation is just one example of how nonmetals’ tendency to gain electrons is vital in creating everyday substances!