Multiple Choice
Which of the following is the correct number of valence electrons for selenium (Se)?
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10. Periodic Properties of the Elements
Valence Electrons of Elements
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What is the total number of outer (valence) electrons present in a molecule of sulfur dioxide (SO_2)?
A
18
B
12
C
20
D
16
Verified step by step guidance1
Identify the atoms present in the molecule SO_2: one sulfur (S) atom and two oxygen (O) atoms.
Determine the number of valence electrons for each atom using their group number in the periodic table: sulfur is in group 16, so it has 6 valence electrons; oxygen is also in group 16, so each oxygen atom has 6 valence electrons.
Calculate the total valence electrons contributed by sulfur: 1 sulfur atom × 6 valence electrons = 6 electrons.
Calculate the total valence electrons contributed by oxygen: 2 oxygen atoms × 6 valence electrons each = 12 electrons.
Add the valence electrons from sulfur and oxygen to find the total number of valence electrons in SO_2: 6 (from S) + 12 (from O) = 18 valence electrons.
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