Question

What charge do group IV A atoms have when they become ions?

• A. Either +4 or -4 but they don't usually become ions.
• B. 4
• C. -4
• D. 3
• E. -3

Answer 1

The correct option is A Either +4 or -4 but they don't usually become ions.

Group $IVA$ elements have $4$ valence electrons in their outermost orbit.

So, group $IVA$ elements can either accept $4$ more electrons or give away $4$ electrons to complete their octet. Hence when they form ion, they can either have $-4$ or $+4$ charge, depending on acceptance of electrons or removal of electrons.

But generally group $IVA$ elements do not form ions. They form compounds mostly by covalent bonding (that is sharing of electrons).

Hence, option A is the correct answer.