Which types of atoms usually become negative ions?

Options

A. metals
B. non-metals
C. noble gases
D. All of these

Explanation

To answer the question "Which types of atoms usually become negative ions?", we can follow these steps:

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understand the Types of Elements**:
- Elements can be broadly categorized into metals, non-metals, and noble gases.

2. **Behavior of Metals**:
- Metals tend to lose electrons. When metals lose electrons, they form positive ions (cations).

3. **Behavior of Non-Metals**:
- Non-metals, on the other hand, have a tendency to gain electrons. When non-metals gain electrons, they form negative ions (anions).

4. **Role of Noble Gases**:
- Noble gases are stable and do not typically gain or lose electrons. They are already in a stable electronic configuration.

5. **Conclusion**:
- Since negative ions are formed by the gain of electrons, the types of atoms that usually become negative ions are non-metals.

6. **Example**:
- For instance, nitrogen (a non-metal) can gain three electrons to form a negative ion, specifically the N³⁻ ion.

### Final Answer:
Non-metals usually become negative ions because they gain electrons.

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