Multiple Choice
Which of the following best describes valence electrons and explains their importance to chemists?
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10. Periodic Properties of the Elements
Valence Electrons of Elements
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How many valence electrons does argon (Ar) have?
A
8
B
2
C
6
D
4
Verified step by step guidance1
Identify the group number of argon (Ar) in the periodic table. Argon is a noble gas located in Group 18.
Recall that elements in Group 18 have a full outer shell of electrons, which corresponds to their valence electrons.
Understand that valence electrons are the electrons in the outermost electron shell of an atom that participate in chemical bonding.
Determine the electron configuration of argon: $1s^2 2s^2 2p^6 3s^2 3p^6$, where the outermost shell is the third shell containing $3s^2$ and $3p^6$ electrons.
Count the electrons in the outermost shell (3rd shell): $2$ electrons in $3s$ plus $6$ electrons in $3p$, totaling $8$ valence electrons.
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