Multiple Choice
How many valence electrons does a nitrogen atom have?
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9. Electrons in Atoms and the Periodic Table
Valence Electrons of Elements (Simplified)
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How many valence electrons are in a neutral atom of magnesium (Mg)?
A
1
B
8
C
6
D
2
Verified step by step guidance1
Identify the element in question, which is magnesium (Mg). Magnesium has an atomic number of 12, meaning it has 12 protons and, in a neutral atom, 12 electrons.
Determine the electron configuration of magnesium to understand how its electrons are arranged in energy levels. The electron configuration can be written as \$1s^2 2s^2 2p^6 3s^2$.
Recognize that valence electrons are the electrons in the outermost energy level (shell) of an atom. For magnesium, the outermost shell is the third shell, which contains the \$3s^2$ electrons.
Count the number of electrons in the outermost shell. In this case, there are 2 electrons in the \$3s$ subshell.
Conclude that the number of valence electrons in a neutral magnesium atom is 2.
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