Magnesium often occurs as Mg2+ ions.Identify what the "2+" indicates.Two more protons than neutronsA net charge of 2+An atomic number of 2+

Breakdown of the Question

1. Identify what the "2+" indicates in the context of magnesium ions.
2. Evaluate the given options: "Two more protons than neutrons," "A net charge of 2+," and "An atomic number of 2+."

Relevant Concepts

• The notation "Mg2+" refers to magnesium in its ionic form.
• The charge of an ion indicates the difference between the number of protons and electrons.

Analysis and Detail

1. The "2+" indicates that the magnesium ion has lost two electrons.
2. Normally, magnesium (Mg) has 12 protons, which is its atomic number. When it loses two electrons, it gains a net positive charge of +2.

Verify and Summarize

• The charge "2+" does not describe the relationship between protons and neutrons or indicate the atomic number directly.
• Therefore, the most accurate interpretation is that it refers to the net charge of the ion.

Final Answer

The "2+" indicates a net charge of 2+.