Multiple Choice
How many valence electrons does indium (In) have?
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10. Periodic Properties of the Elements
Valence Electrons of Elements
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How many valence electrons does silicon (Si) have?
A
4
B
2
C
6
D
8
Verified step by step guidance1
Identify the group number of silicon (Si) in the periodic table. Silicon is in group 14 (or group IV) of the periodic table.
Recall that the group number for main group elements corresponds to the number of valence electrons. For group 14 elements, the number of valence electrons is 4.
Understand that valence electrons are the electrons in the outermost shell of an atom that participate in chemical bonding.
Confirm by writing the electron configuration of silicon: $1s^2 2s^2 2p^6 3s^2 3p^2$. The electrons in the 3rd shell (3s and 3p orbitals) are the valence electrons.
Count the electrons in the outermost shell (3s and 3p), which are $2 + 2 = 4$ valence electrons for silicon.
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