Multiple Choice
How many valence electrons are in a neutral chlorine atom (Cl)?
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9. Electrons in Atoms and the Periodic Table
Valence Electrons of Elements (Simplified)
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In a simplified model of chemical bonding, what most directly determines an atom's reactivity?
A
The total number of electron shells (energy levels) the atom has
B
The atomic mass of the element
C
The number of electrons in the atom's outermost (valence) shell
D
The number of neutrons in the nucleus
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand that an atom's reactivity is primarily influenced by how it interacts with other atoms, which depends on its electrons, especially those in the outermost shell.
Recall that electrons are arranged in energy levels or shells around the nucleus, and the outermost shell is called the valence shell.
Recognize that the number of electrons in the valence shell determines how easily an atom can gain, lose, or share electrons to form chemical bonds.
Note that the total number of electron shells, atomic mass, or number of neutrons do not directly affect the atom's chemical reactivity in the same way as valence electrons do.
Therefore, the key factor that most directly determines an atom's reactivity is the number of electrons in its outermost (valence) shell.
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