Multiple Choice
Why is the configuration of electrons in an atom's outer shell important?
3
views
10. Periodic Properties of the Elements
Valence Electrons of Elements
Struggling with General Chemistry?
Join thousands of students who trust us to help them ace their exams!Watch the first videoMultiple Choice
How many valence electrons does hydrogen have?
A
0
B
8
C
1
D
2
Verified step by step guidance1
Recall that valence electrons are the electrons in the outermost shell of an atom that participate in chemical bonding.
Identify the electron configuration of hydrogen. Hydrogen has 1 electron, which occupies the first energy level (1s orbital).
Since the first energy level can hold up to 2 electrons, and hydrogen has only 1 electron, that single electron is in its valence shell.
Therefore, hydrogen has 1 valence electron because it has only one electron in its outermost (and only) shell.
This explains why the correct answer is 1 valence electron for hydrogen.
2:32mWatch next
Master Main Group Elements Valence Electrons with a bite sized video explanation from Jules
Start learningRelated Videos
Related Practice
Valence Electrons of Elements practice set
Problem sets built by lead tutorsExpert video explanations