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  • Identifying the Group of Element X: A Chemistry Problem Solved
    Here's how to break down the clues and determine the group:

    * Nonpolar molecule with two identical atoms: This suggests a diatomic molecule, like H₂ (hydrogen), N₂ (nitrogen), O₂ (oxygen), F₂ (fluorine), Cl₂ (chlorine), Br₂ (bromine), or I₂ (iodine).

    * Forms ions with a 2- charge when reacting with sodium: This means element X gains two electrons to achieve a stable octet configuration.

    Determining the Group:

    Elements that gain two electrons to achieve a stable octet are found in Group 16 (VIA) of the periodic table. This group is also known as the chalcogens.

    Example:

    Oxygen (O) is a good example. It forms a diatomic molecule (O₂) and reacts with sodium to form sodium oxide (Na₂O), where oxygen has a 2- charge.

    Therefore, element X belongs to Group 16 (VIA) of the periodic table.

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