Multiple Choice
Which of the following elements has two unpaired electrons in its ground-state electron configuration?
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10. Periodic Properties of the Elements
Valence Electrons of Elements
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Which of the following is a likely predictor of how many covalent bonds an atom can form?
A
The atomic mass of the element
B
The total number of electrons in the atom
C
The number of neutrons in the nucleus
D
The number of valence electrons in the atom
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand that covalent bonds form when atoms share electrons, specifically those in the outermost shell, called valence electrons.
Recall that the number of covalent bonds an atom can form is related to how many electrons it needs to complete its valence shell, often following the octet rule.
Recognize that atomic mass and the total number of electrons do not directly determine bonding capacity because they include inner electrons that do not participate in bonding.
Note that neutrons in the nucleus do not affect bonding since they are neutral particles and do not participate in electron sharing.
Conclude that the number of valence electrons is the best predictor of how many covalent bonds an atom can form, as it indicates how many electrons are available or needed to complete the outer shell.
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