Multiple Choice
Which of the following orbital diagrams correctly represents oxygen having six valence electrons?
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10. Periodic Properties of the Elements
Valence Electrons of Elements
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Why does an atom with many valence electrons tend to gain electrons rather than lose any?
A
Because gaining electrons decreases the atomic radius significantly.
B
Because losing electrons requires less energy than gaining them for atoms with many valence electrons.
C
Because gaining electrons allows the atom to achieve a stable, full valence shell similar to noble gases.
D
Because atoms with many valence electrons have a low electronegativity.
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand the concept of valence electrons: These are the electrons in the outermost shell of an atom and determine how an atom interacts chemically.
Recall the octet rule: Atoms tend to gain, lose, or share electrons to achieve a full valence shell, usually consisting of 8 electrons, which is a stable configuration similar to noble gases.
Consider atoms with many valence electrons (typically 5 or more): Losing electrons would mean removing a large number of electrons, which requires a lot of energy and is generally unfavorable.
Recognize that gaining a few electrons to complete the valence shell is energetically more favorable for these atoms, as it leads to a stable electronic configuration.
Therefore, atoms with many valence electrons tend to gain electrons rather than lose them because gaining electrons allows them to achieve a full, stable valence shell.
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