Multiple Choice
How many total valence electrons are present in a molecule of C_2H_6 (ethane)?
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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 valence electrons does a neutral atom of gold (Au) have?
A
1
B
6
C
8
D
2
Verified step by step guidance1
Identify the atomic number of gold (Au), which is 79, and write its electron configuration to understand the distribution of electrons in its shells and subshells.
Recall that valence electrons are the electrons in the outermost shell (highest principal quantum number, n) of an atom that participate in chemical bonding.
Write the electron configuration of gold (Au) using the Aufbau principle, filling orbitals in order: 1s, 2s, 2p, 3s, 3p, 4s, 3d, 4p, 5s, 4d, 5p, 6s, 4f, 5d, 6p, etc., until all 79 electrons are accounted for.
Determine the highest principal energy level (n) occupied by electrons in gold and count the number of electrons in that shell; these are the valence electrons.
Note that for transition metals like gold, valence electrons include the electrons in the outermost s and d subshells, so include electrons in the 6s and 5d orbitals when counting valence electrons.
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