Which electrons in an atom are primarily responsible for participating in chemical bonding?

• A. All electrons
• B. Core electrons
• C. Valence electrons
• D. Only s-orbital electrons

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that electrons in an atom are arranged in different energy levels or shells, with each shell containing subshells (s, p, d, f).
2. Recognize that core electrons are those found in the inner shells, closer to the nucleus, and are generally not involved in chemical bonding because they are held tightly by the nucleus.
3. Identify valence electrons as the electrons in the outermost shell of an atom. These electrons have higher energy and are less tightly held, making them available to interact with other atoms.
4. Recall that chemical bonding involves the sharing, gaining, or losing of electrons to achieve a more stable electron configuration, which primarily involves valence electrons.
5. Conclude that valence electrons are the electrons primarily responsible for participating in chemical bonding, not all electrons or only s-orbital electrons.