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  • Predicting Chemical Formulas: A Lewis Theory Guide (CaF2)
    Here's how to predict the formula using Lewis theory:

    1. Determine the Valence Electrons:

    * Calcium (Ca): Group 2, so it has 2 valence electrons.

    * Fluorine (F): Group 17, so it has 7 valence electrons.

    2. Achieve a Stable Octet:

    * Calcium: Tends to lose its 2 valence electrons to achieve a stable electron configuration like the noble gas Argon (with 8 valence electrons).

    * Fluorine: Tends to gain 1 electron to achieve a stable electron configuration like the noble gas Neon (with 8 valence electrons).

    3. Balance the Transfer:

    * Since calcium loses 2 electrons and each fluorine gains 1, we need two fluorine atoms to accept the two electrons from calcium.

    4. Determine the Formula:

    * Calcium loses 2 electrons, becoming a +2 cation (Ca²⁺).

    * Fluorine gains 1 electron each, becoming -1 anions (F⁻).

    * To balance the charges, the formula is CaF₂.

    Therefore, the formula for the compound between fluorine and calcium, predicted by Lewis theory, is CaF₂.

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