Multiple Choice
Determine the electron configuration for the Cl– ion.
9. Electrons in Atoms and the Periodic Table
Ions and the Octet Rule
Struggling with Introduction to Chemistry?
Join thousands of students who trust us to help them ace their exams!Watch the first videoMultiple Choice
In the context of ions and the octet rule, stable electron configurations are most likely to contain which of the following?
A
More protons than electrons in the atom
B
An odd number of electrons in the valence shell
C
A full valence shell (typically 8 valence electrons for main-group elements)
D
Exactly 4 valence electrons in the outermost shell
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand the octet rule: atoms tend to gain, lose, or share electrons to achieve a full valence shell, which usually means having 8 electrons in their outermost shell for main-group elements.
Recognize that a full valence shell provides maximum stability because it resembles the electron configuration of noble gases, which are chemically inert.
Analyze the options given: having more protons than electrons means the atom is positively charged (a cation), but this alone does not guarantee a full valence shell.
Note that having an odd number of electrons in the valence shell is generally unstable because electrons tend to pair up to minimize energy.
Conclude that the most stable electron configuration is the one with a full valence shell, typically 8 valence electrons, as this satisfies the octet rule and leads to chemical stability.
2:59mWatch next
Master Ions and the Octet Rule Concept 1 with a bite sized video explanation from Jules
Start learningRelated Videos
Related Practice
Ions and the Octet Rule practice set
Problem sets built by lead tutorsExpert video explanations