Which statement best describes the atoms of the gas neon?

• A. Neon atoms have two valence electrons in their outer shell.
• B. Neon atoms are diatomic molecules under standard conditions.
• C. Neon atoms are monatomic and have a complete outer electron shell.
• D. Neon atoms readily form covalent bonds with other neon atoms.

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Recall that neon (Ne) is a noble gas located in Group 18 of the periodic table, which means it has a full outer electron shell.
2. Understand that neon atoms are monatomic gases under standard conditions, meaning they exist as single atoms rather than molecules composed of multiple atoms.
3. Recognize that neon has a complete outer shell with 8 valence electrons, making it chemically stable and unlikely to form bonds with other atoms, including other neon atoms.
4. Note that neon does not form diatomic molecules, unlike gases such as oxygen (O\_2) or nitrogen (N\_2), because it is already stable as a single atom.
5. Conclude that the best description is that neon atoms are monatomic and have a complete outer electron shell, which explains their chemical inertness.