Multiple Choice
How many valence electrons does an atom of aluminum (Al) have?
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10. Periodic Properties of the Elements
Valence Electrons of Elements
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Given the following orbital diagram: 1s^2 2s^2 2p^5, which element does this represent, and how many valence electrons does it have?
A
Fluorine; 7 valence electrons
B
Oxygen; 6 valence electrons
C
Neon; 8 valence electrons
D
Nitrogen; 5 valence electrons
Verified step by step guidance1
Identify the electron configuration given: $1s^2\ 2s^2\ 2p^5$. This notation shows the distribution of electrons in the atomic orbitals.
Count the total number of electrons by adding the superscripts: $2 + 2 + 5 = 9$ electrons. This corresponds to the atomic number of the element.
Use the atomic number to determine the element. An atomic number of 9 corresponds to Fluorine on the periodic table.
Determine the valence electrons by looking at the electrons in the outermost shell (n=2 in this case). The valence electrons are those in $2s^2$ and $2p^5$, which sum to $2 + 5 = 7$ valence electrons.
Conclude that the element is Fluorine and it has 7 valence electrons based on the electron configuration and periodic table position.
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