Multiple Choice
How many bonding electrons does a fluorine atom have in its ground state?
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10. Periodic Properties of the Elements
Valence Electrons of Elements
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Which statement best explains how the valence electrons of an element determine its chemical reactivity?
A
Elements with more protons in the nucleus are always more reactive.
B
Elements with a higher atomic mass are always more reactive.
C
Elements with fewer neutrons in the nucleus have higher reactivity.
D
Elements with a full valence shell are generally less reactive because they are stable.
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand that chemical reactivity is primarily determined by the arrangement of valence electrons, which are the electrons in the outermost shell of an atom.
Recall that atoms tend to react in ways that allow them to achieve a full valence shell, often resembling the electron configuration of the nearest noble gas, which is a stable arrangement.
Recognize that elements with a full valence shell have little tendency to gain, lose, or share electrons, making them generally less reactive or inert.
Contrast this with elements that have incomplete valence shells, which are more likely to participate in chemical reactions to achieve stability by filling or emptying their outer shell.
Conclude that the number of protons, neutrons, or atomic mass does not directly determine reactivity; rather, it is the electron configuration, especially the valence electrons, that governs chemical behavior.
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