Multiple Choice
Which of the following best describes valence electrons?
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10. Periodic Properties of the Elements
Valence Electrons of Elements
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Which of the following represents the number of valence electrons in a nitrogen atom in its ground state?
A
2
B
7
C
3
D
5
Verified step by step guidance1
Recall that valence electrons are the electrons in the outermost shell (energy level) of an atom that are involved in chemical bonding.
Determine the electron configuration of a nitrogen atom in its ground state. Nitrogen has an atomic number of 7, so it has 7 electrons.
Write the electron configuration for nitrogen: $1s^2 2s^2 2p^3$.
Identify the electrons in the outermost shell, which is the second shell (2s and 2p orbitals). The electrons in this shell are $2s^2$ and $2p^3$, totaling 5 electrons.
Conclude that the number of valence electrons in a nitrogen atom in its ground state is 5.
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