An element ' $\mathit{M}$ ' with electronic configuration $\left(2,8,2\right)$ combines separately with ${\left({\mathrm{NO}}_3\right)}^{-}$, ${\left({\mathrm{SO}}_4\right)}^{2-}$ and ${\left({\mathrm{PO}}_4\right)}^{3-}$ radicals. Write the formula of the three compounds so formed. To which group and period of the Modern Periodic Table does the elements ' ${}^{\prime }{}^{\prime }$ ' belong? Will ' $\mathit{M}$ ' form covalent or ionic compounds ? Give reason to justify your answer.