Group 7A (17) elements can gain one electron to attain a noble gas electron configuration. In combination with metal atoms that gain one or more valence electrons to achieve octet structure, they form ionic compounds. Group 8A (18) elements already have an octet of valence electrons (two for helium), so they do not lose or gain electrons and are not normally found in compounds. True / False.

The two statements are all True for group 7 and 8 elements.

Explanation:

The Group 7 elements are known as the halogens. They are reactive non-metals and are always found in compounds with other elements. Chlorine, bromine and iodine are all halogens.

Chlorine, bromine and iodine are the three common Group 7 elements. Group 7 elements form salts when they react with metals. The term ‘halogen’ means 'salt former'.

In addition to the discription given to norble gases in the question which is true, norble gases;