Which part of an atom is primarily responsible for its chemical reactivity during a chemical process?

• A. Core (inner) electrons
• B. Protons in the nucleus
• C. Neutrons in the nucleus
• D. Valence electrons

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that chemical reactivity of an atom depends on how it interacts with other atoms during chemical processes.
2. Recall that the nucleus (containing protons and neutrons) is very stable and does not directly participate in chemical bonding or reactions.
3. Recognize that core (inner) electrons are tightly bound to the nucleus and generally do not participate in chemical reactions.
4. Identify that valence electrons are the outermost electrons of an atom and are involved in forming chemical bonds by being shared, gained, or lost.
5. Conclude that valence electrons are primarily responsible for an atom's chemical reactivity because they determine how the atom interacts with other atoms.