Multiple Choice
What is the significance of carbon having four valence electrons?
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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
The chemical characteristics or reactivity of an element depend mostly on the __________.
A
number of valence electrons
B
number of neutrons
C
atomic mass
D
total number of protons and neutrons
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand that the chemical characteristics or reactivity of an element are primarily determined by how it interacts with other atoms, which depends on the electrons involved in bonding.
Recall that electrons are arranged in shells around the nucleus, and the outermost shell electrons are called valence electrons.
Recognize that valence electrons are responsible for forming chemical bonds because they can be gained, lost, or shared with other atoms.
Note that the number of neutrons affects the isotope of an element but does not influence chemical reactivity.
Conclude that the chemical properties depend mostly on the number of valence electrons, not on atomic mass or the total number of protons and neutrons.
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