2Mg(s)
+ O2(g)
(The metal
loses electrons, but must be forced to
do so)
The non-metal, in this reaction, gains electrons but
must be forced to
take them!
Mg O(s)
Why do metals react with non
metals to produce ionic
compounds?
initial
final
Explaining the course
of Chemical Processes
Metals
like to lose electrons.(?)
(1).
(2).
Non
metals like to gain electrons. (?)