Multiple Choice
Which of the following is found in the outermost shell (energy level) of an atom?
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10. Periodic Properties of the Elements
Valence Electrons of Elements
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How many valence electrons are available for bonding in silicon (Si)?
A
8
B
6
C
2
D
4
Verified step by step guidance1
Identify the atomic number of silicon (Si), which is 14. This tells us the total number of electrons in a neutral silicon atom.
Determine the electron configuration of silicon. The full configuration is $1s^2 2s^2 2p^6 3s^2 3p^2$.
Recognize that valence electrons are the electrons in the outermost shell (highest principal quantum number). For silicon, the outermost shell is the third shell, which includes the $3s$ and $3p$ orbitals.
Count the electrons in the outermost shell: $3s^2$ contributes 2 electrons and $3p^2$ contributes 2 electrons, totaling 4 valence electrons.
Conclude that silicon has 4 valence electrons available for bonding.
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