Elements of which of the following groups will form anions most readily ?

Options

A. Oxygen family
B. Nitrogen family
C. Halogens
D. Alkali metals

Explanation

To determine which group of elements forms anions most readily, we will analyze the groups mentioned: alkali metals, nitrogen family, oxygen family, and halogens.

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Identify the Groups**:
- Alkali Metals: Group 1 (e.g., Sodium, Potassium)
- Nitrogen Family: Group 15 (e.g., Nitrogen, Phosphorus)
- Oxygen Family: Group 16 (e.g., Oxygen, Sulfur)
- Halogens: Group 17 (e.g., Fluorine, Chlorine)

2. **Understand Anion Formation**:
- Anions are negatively charged ions formed when an atom gains electrons.
- Elements that are more electronegative or have a higher tendency to gain electrons will form anions more readily.

3. **Examine the Electron Configurations**:
- Alkali Metals: These elements have one electron in their outermost shell and tend to lose that electron to form cations, not anions.
- Nitrogen Family: These elements can gain three electrons to achieve a stable configuration, but they are not as electronegative as halogens.
- Oxygen Family: These elements can gain two electrons to achieve a stable configuration, but they are less electronegative than halogens.
- Halogens: These elements have seven electrons in their outermost shell and only need one more electron to achieve a stable configuration (like noble gases). They are highly electronegative.

4. **Compare Electronegativity**:
- Halogens are the most electronegative elements among the groups listed. This high electronegativity means they readily gain an electron to form anions (e.g., F⁻, Cl⁻).

5. **Conclusion**:
- Based on the analysis, the group that will form anions most readily is the **Halogens** (Group 17).

### Final Answer:
**Halogens (Group 17) will form anions most readily.**