Chemistry CLEP question

[itsme583]

Hi-

I am in the process of studying for the Chemistry CLEP exam and need help on one of the questions. The question is:

1s2 2s2 2p6 3s2 3p3

Atoms of an element, X, have the electronic configuration shown above. The compound most likely formed

with magnesium, MG, is

a. MgX

b. Mg2X

c. MgX2

d. Mg2X3

e. Mg3X2

The answer is E. Can anyone explain why the answer is E??

Thanks,

Jen

[sleepyRN2]

physics, chemistry, mathematics and biology ---all have been my favorites, that's why i majored in all (4) of them. lol.