Multiple Choice
How many valence electrons does hydrogen have?
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10. Periodic Properties of the Elements
Valence Electrons of Elements
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Selenium has six valence electrons. What is the most common valence of selenium in its compounds?
A
2
B
4
C
8
D
6
Verified step by step guidance1
Recall that the valence of an element in a compound typically corresponds to the number of electrons it gains, loses, or shares to achieve a stable electron configuration, often resembling the nearest noble gas.
Selenium (Se) has six valence electrons, as it is in group 16 of the periodic table, which means it tends to gain or share 2 electrons to complete its octet.
The most common valence states for elements in group 16 are usually 2 or 6, depending on whether they gain or share electrons in compounds.
Since selenium has six valence electrons, it commonly exhibits a valence of 2 when it gains two electrons to complete its octet, or a valence of 6 when it shares all six valence electrons in compounds like selenates.
Therefore, the most common valence of selenium in its compounds is 6, reflecting its ability to use all six valence electrons in bonding.
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