Multiple Choice
How many valence electrons does bismuth (Bi) have?
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10. Periodic Properties of the Elements
Valence Electrons of Elements
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How many valence electrons does an atom of the element neon (Ne) have?
A
8
B
10
C
2
D
6
Verified step by step guidance1
Identify the element in question, which is neon (Ne). Neon is a noble gas with atomic number 10.
Determine the electron configuration of neon. Since neon has 10 electrons, its configuration is $1s^2 2s^2 2p^6$.
Recall that valence electrons are the electrons in the outermost shell (highest principal quantum number, n). For neon, the outermost shell is the second shell (n=2).
Count the electrons in the outermost shell: the 2s subshell has 2 electrons and the 2p subshell has 6 electrons, totaling $2 + 6 = 8$ valence electrons.
Conclude that neon has 8 valence electrons, which explains its chemical inertness as a noble gas.
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