Multiple Choice
How many valence electrons does the S^{2-} ion have? (Hint: Write out the electron configuration of S^{2-}.)
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10. Periodic Properties of the Elements
Valence Electrons of Elements
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Given the electron configuration of argon (Ar): [Ne]3s2 3p6, how many valence electrons does argon have?
A
2
B
6
C
0
D
8
Verified step by step guidance1
Identify the electron configuration of argon (Ar), which is given as $[Ne]3s^2 3p^6$.
Recall that valence electrons are the electrons in the outermost shell (highest principal quantum number, $n$). For argon, the outermost shell is $n=3$.
Count the electrons in the $3s$ and $3p$ orbitals: $3s^2$ means 2 electrons, and $3p^6$ means 6 electrons.
Add these electrons together to find the total number of valence electrons: $2 + 6 = 8$.
Conclude that argon has 8 valence electrons, which corresponds to a full outer shell making it chemically stable.
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