Main-group metals tend to __ when forming ions. a lose one electron b either lose or gain three or fewer electrons c gain three or fewer electrons d lose all of their valence electrons

## Step 1<br />Main-group metals are elements found in the s and p blocks of the periodic table. These elements have a tendency to lose electrons to achieve a stable electron configuration. This is because they have one to three electrons in their outermost shell, and losing these electrons allows them to achieve a stable electron configuration similar to that of the noble gases.<br /><br />## Step 2<br />Option a, "lose one electron," is not specific enough. While it is true that some main-group metals may lose one electron, others may lose two or three. Therefore, this option is not the most accurate answer.<br /><br />## Step 3<br />Option b, "either lose or gain three or fewer electrons," is too broad. While main-group metals can lose or gain electrons, the tendency is to lose electrons rather than gain them.<br /><br />## Step 4<br />Option c, "gain three or fewer electrons," is not accurate. Main-group metals tend to lose electrons rather than gain them.<br /><br />## Step 5<br />Option d, "lose all of their valence electrons," is the most accurate answer. Main-group metals tend to lose all of their valence electrons to achieve a stable electron configuration.