* Lithium (Li): Lithium has a charge of +1. This means it tends to lose one electron to become a positively charged ion (Li+).
* Oxygen (O): Oxygen has a charge of -2. This means it tends to gain two electrons to become a negatively charged ion (O2-).
Why these charges?
The charges of elements are determined by their position on the periodic table and their desire to achieve a stable electron configuration (like the noble gases).
* Lithium is in Group 1 (alkali metals), meaning it has one valence electron in its outermost shell. It readily loses this electron to achieve a stable, empty outer shell.
* Oxygen is in Group 16 (chalcogens), meaning it has six valence electrons. It wants to gain two more electrons to fill its outer shell and become stable.
