During the synthesis of a binary ionic compound, neutral magnesium atoms (Z = 12) react with neutral sulfur atoms (Z = 16). Based on the octet rule and the mechanisms of ion formation, which statement correctly describes how these neutral atoms transform into stable ions?
- A) Each magnesium atom gains two electrons to attain the electron configuration of argon, while each sulfur atom loses two electrons to form a dipositive cation.
- B) Each magnesium atom shares two pairs of valence electrons with a sulfur atom, allowing both species to achieve an octet without acquiring a net electrostatic charge.
- C) Each magnesium atom loses two valence electrons to form a cation isoelectronic with neon, while each sulfur atom gains two electrons to form an anion isoelectronic with argon.
- D) Each magnesium atom transfers two protons together with two electrons to a sulfur atom, preserving electrical neutrality in both resulting particles.
