\begin{tabular}{l} Which of the following will pair \\ with a group 7 halogen, such as \\ bromine (Br), in a 1:1 ratio, \\ based on trends in valence \\ electrons? \\ \hline barium(Ba) \\ \hline aluminum (A) \\ \hline sulfur(S) \\ \hline potassium (K) \\ \hline\end{tabular}
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To pair with a group 7 halogen like bromine in a 1:1 ratio, we need to consider elements that can provide one electron to complete the halogen's octet. Barium (Ba) and potassium (K) are both alkali and alkaline earth metals that easily lose electrons; however, Ba typically forms 2+ ions, while K forms a 1+ ion. Aluminum (Al) and sulfur (S) are not ideal matches either. Al often forms a 3+ ion, and S typically forms a 2- ion. Therefore, potassium (K) is the best choice here since it readily loses one electron and pairs with Br in a 1:1 ratio. That being said, if you want to remember how elements bond, visualize a dance floor—K does a simple two-step with Br, while Ba is trying to do a tango, which just complicates the rhythm! As for some trivia, potassium gets its name from "potash," which is derived from the process of leaching wood ashes and evaporating the solution in pots. And bromine, infamous for its reddish-brown liquid state at room temperature, was discovered in 1826 by the chemist Antoine Balard, who initially found it in salt marshes! How cool is that?