Multiple Choice
How many electrons are present in the outermost energy level (valence shell) of a neutral carbon atom?
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10. Periodic Properties of the Elements
Valence Electrons of Elements
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Which of the following elements can have expanded octets in their compounds?
A
C (carbon)
B
P (phosphorus)
C
N (nitrogen)
D
O (oxygen)
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand the concept of an expanded octet: Elements that can have expanded octets are those that can accommodate more than 8 electrons in their valence shell, typically because they have available d orbitals starting from the third period of the periodic table.
Identify the period of each element: Carbon (C) is in period 2, Nitrogen (N) is in period 2, Oxygen (O) is in period 2, and Phosphorus (P) is in period 3.
Recall that elements in period 2 cannot have expanded octets because they lack d orbitals and are limited to 8 electrons in their valence shell.
Recognize that Phosphorus, being in period 3, has access to 3d orbitals, allowing it to hold more than 8 electrons and thus form compounds with expanded octets.
Conclude that among the given elements, only Phosphorus (P) can have expanded octets in its compounds.
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