Multiple Choice
What is the total number of valence electrons in an atom of boron (B) in its ground state?
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10. Periodic Properties of the Elements
Valence Electrons of Elements
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How many valence electrons does germanium (Ge) have?
A
8
B
4
C
6
D
2
Verified step by step guidance1
Identify the group number of germanium (Ge) in the periodic table. Germanium is in group 14 (or 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 (highest principal quantum number) of an atom that participate in chemical bonding.
Confirm by writing the electron configuration of germanium: $1s^2 2s^2 2p^6 3s^2 3p^6 3d^{10} 4s^2 4p^2$; the electrons in the 4s and 4p orbitals are the valence electrons.
Count the electrons in the 4th shell (4s and 4p orbitals): $2 + 2 = 4$ valence electrons for germanium.
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