Multiple Choice
Which of the following represents the valence electron configuration for a potassium (K) atom?
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10. Periodic Properties of the Elements
Valence Electrons of Elements
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Join thousands of students who trust us to help them ace their exams!Watch the first videoMultiple Choice
What is the total number of valence electrons in a carbon atom in the ground state?
A
4
B
2
C
6
D
8
Verified step by step guidance1
Recall that valence electrons are the electrons in the outermost shell of an atom that are involved in chemical bonding.
Identify the atomic number of carbon, which is 6, meaning a carbon atom has 6 electrons in total.
Determine the electron configuration of carbon in the ground state: $1s^2 2s^2 2p^2$.
Recognize that the valence electrons are those in the outermost shell, which for carbon is the second shell (the $2s$ and $2p$ orbitals).
Count the electrons in the $2s$ and $2p$ orbitals: $2 + 2 = 4$ valence electrons.
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