Multiple Choice
How many valence electrons does a fluorine atom have?
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10. Periodic Properties of the Elements
Valence Electrons of Elements
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How many valence electrons does a sulfur (S) atom have?
A
8
B
4
C
2
D
6
Verified step by step guidance1
Identify the group number of sulfur (S) in the periodic table. Sulfur is in group 16 (or VIA), which helps determine its valence electrons.
Recall that elements in group 16 have 6 valence electrons because the group number corresponds to the number of valence electrons for main-group elements.
Understand that valence electrons are the electrons in the outermost shell of an atom, which participate in chemical bonding.
Write the electron configuration of sulfur: $1s^2 2s^2 2p^6 3s^2 3p^4$. The electrons in the 3s and 3p orbitals are the valence electrons.
Count the electrons in the outermost shell (3s and 3p): $2 + 4 = 6$ valence electrons for sulfur.
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