As a subject matter expert in the field of chemistry, I'd like to provide a comprehensive explanation regarding the behavior of atoms in terms of electron loss to form ions. The type of atom that will always lose valence electrons to become an ion is a metal. Metals are elements found on the left side of the periodic table and are known for their tendency to lose electrons due to their relatively low ionization energies.

The process of an atom losing electrons is called oxidation. When a metal atom loses one or more valence electrons, it forms a positive ion, or cation. This occurs because metals have a relatively low number of valence electrons, which are the electrons in the outermost shell of an atom. These valence electrons are not tightly held to the nucleus due to the larger atomic radius of metals, making it easier for them to be lost.

The driving force behind this electron loss is the desire of the metal atom to achieve a stable electron configuration. By losing electrons, a metal atom can attain the electron configuration of the nearest noble gas, which is a state of low energy and high stability. Noble gases are known for having a full set of valence electrons, which gives them exceptional stability.

In contrast, nonmetals, which are found on the right side of the periodic table, tend to gain electrons to achieve stability. This is because nonmetals have a higher number of valence electrons and a stronger attraction to additional electrons due to their smaller atomic radii. When a nonmetal atom gains an electron, it becomes a negative ion, or anion.

The reference to group 17 elements, also known as the halogens, is relevant in this context. Halogens are highly electronegative and are most likely to form negative ions by gaining an electron. This is because they have seven valence electrons and need only one more to complete their octet, which is the electron configuration of the noble gases.

In summary, metals are the type of atoms that will always lose valence electrons to become ions, forming positive ions or cations, in their quest for stability. This behavior is in stark contrast to nonmetals, particularly halogens, which form negative ions by gaining electrons.

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Negative Ions form when atoms gain valence electrons. When forming an ionic compound a metal ion is most likely to lose an valence electrons. an element from group 17 is most likely to form a negative ion. When an atom loses a valence electron it becomes a positive ion.read more >>