Multiple Choice
Which of the following atoms can expand its valence shell when bonding?
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10. Periodic Properties of the Elements
Valence Electrons of Elements
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Join thousands of students who trust us to help them ace their exams!Watch the first videoMultiple Choice
How many additional electrons does a sulfur atom need to achieve a stable (octet) electron configuration?
A
6
B
8
C
2
D
4
Verified step by step guidance1
Recall that a stable (octet) electron configuration means having 8 electrons in the outermost shell (valence shell).
Determine the number of valence electrons sulfur has by looking at its group number in the periodic table. Sulfur is in group 16, so it has 6 valence electrons.
Calculate how many more electrons sulfur needs to reach 8 valence electrons by subtracting the current valence electrons from 8: $8 - 6$.
The result from the subtraction gives the number of additional electrons sulfur needs to gain to achieve a stable octet configuration.
Conclude that sulfur needs 2 additional electrons to complete its octet and become stable.
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