Multiple Choice
How many valence electrons does a potassium (K) atom have?
4
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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 carbon atom have?
A
2
B
8
C
6
D
4
Verified step by step guidance1
Recall that valence electrons are the electrons in the outermost shell (energy level) of an atom that participate in chemical bonding.
Determine the electron configuration of a carbon atom. Carbon has an atomic number of 6, so it has 6 electrons.
Write the electron configuration: $1s^2 2s^2 2p^2$.
Identify the electrons in the outermost shell, which is the second shell (n=2) for carbon. These are the $2s^2$ and $2p^2$ electrons.
Add the electrons in the outermost shell: $2 + 2 = 4$ valence electrons.
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