Which element is least likely to form chemical bonds?

• A. Neon (Ne)
• B. Oxygen (O)
• C. Sodium (Na)
• D. Chlorine (Cl)

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that the likelihood of an element forming chemical bonds depends on its electron configuration, particularly its valence electrons.
2. Recall that elements tend to form bonds to achieve a full valence shell, often following the octet rule (8 electrons in the outer shell).
3. Identify the electron configurations of the given elements: Neon (Ne), Oxygen (O), Sodium (Na), and Chlorine (Cl).
4. Recognize that Neon is a noble gas with a full valence shell (8 electrons), making it very stable and unlikely to form chemical bonds.
5. Compare this to Oxygen, Sodium, and Chlorine, which have incomplete valence shells and tend to form bonds to achieve stability.