Multiple Choice
What is the maximum number of electrons that can occupy the valence shell of a hydrogen atom?
10. Periodic Properties of the Elements
Valence Electrons of Elements
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How many valence electrons does the element strontium (Sr) have?
A
6
B
8
C
2
D
4
Verified step by step guidance1
Identify the atomic number of strontium (Sr), which is 38, to understand its electron configuration.
Write the electron configuration of Sr by filling orbitals in order: 1s, 2s, 2p, 3s, 3p, 4s, 3d, 4p, 5s, 4d, etc., until you reach 38 electrons.
Determine the highest principal energy level (the outermost shell) in the electron configuration of Sr. This corresponds to the largest principal quantum number (n).
Count the number of electrons in the outermost shell (valence shell). These electrons are the valence electrons responsible for chemical bonding.
Conclude that strontium has 2 valence electrons because its outermost shell (5s) contains 2 electrons.
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