Classwork review regarding group 1 atoms, the number of outer electrons and how they become stable by attaining the electron configuration of an inert gas... The group 2 elements were listed and electron configurations sketched, showing each atom containing 2 electrons in its outer energy level. The term valence electrons was introduced. The stability of these atoms was increased when they "lost" 2 electrons from their last energy level, forming ions of +2 charge. The same was done for the group 17 non metals, florine, chlorine and bromine. It was worked out that they will "gain" an electron to increase their last energy level from 7 to 8, and form ions of -1 charge. What happens to these "lost" electrons ? To be answered soon.