Introductory Chemistry Revell 1 SECoNo EDITION Classify each atom based on whether it would gain or lose electrons to fulfill the octet rule. Gain electrons \( \square \) Lose electrons \( \square \) Answer Bank an atom in the halogen family a calcium atom an atom with an electron configuration of \( [\mathrm{Xe}] 6 \mathrm{~s}^{2} \) an atom with an electron configuration of \( [\mathrm{Ar}] 45^{2} 3 d^{10} 4 p^{4} \)

Atoms in the halogen family, like fluorine or chlorine, are known for their tendency to gain electrons to complete their outer shell and achieve a stable octet. They have seven valence electrons and only need one more to reach that coveted full shell. On the flip side, a calcium atom, which has the electron configuration of \([ \text{Ar}] 4s^2\), easily sheds its two outer electrons to achieve a stable electron configuration. This losing of electrons helps calcium fulfill the octet rule by leaving it with a full outer shell, like the noble gases.