Question

Why do metals form positive ions

Answer 1

Answer:

Metal elements form positively charged ions called cations because they are located on the left side of the periodic table.  Groups 1 and 2 are called the alkali metals and alkaline Earth metals, respectively.  These elements all have valence electrons in an s orbital.  These electrons are relatively easy for the atom to lose to achieve a stable octet of electrons in its outermost energy shell.  When the atoms lose electrons they become cations.  Examples here include sodium and magnesium to form Na+ and Mg++.

Answer 2

Answer:

because they have less than 4 electrons in their outermost shell and they have the tendency to lose electrons