2025 MCAT General Chemistry Practice Exam – Your Comprehensive All-in-One Study Guide for Success!

The behavior of metals in terms of electron interaction is primarily characterized by their tendency to lose electrons, resulting in the formation of positive ions (cations). This property is a reflection of their lower electronegativity compared to nonmetals and their position on the periodic table, particularly in groups 1 and 2, where elements such as sodium and magnesium readily shed their outermost electrons during reactions.

When metals lose electrons, they achieve a more stable electron configuration, often resembling that of the nearest noble gas. This propensity to lose electrons can be attributed to the relative size of their atomic radii and the shielding effect, which makes it easier for them to release their outer electrons. The resulting cations acquire a positive charge, which is essential for the formation of ionic compounds, especially with nonmetals that can gain those electrons.

This characteristic sets metals apart from nonmetals, which generally gain electrons to form negative ions. Consequently, understanding metals' behavior in terms of electron loss is crucial for predicting their reactivity and the types of compounds they will form in various chemical contexts.