What is the valence electron configuration for the silicon atom?

• A. 3s^2 3p^6
• B. 3s^2 3p^2
• C. 2s^2 2p^6
• D. 4s^2 3d^2

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Recall that the valence electrons are the electrons in the outermost shell (highest principal quantum number, n) of an atom.
2. Determine the atomic number of silicon, which is 14, meaning it has 14 electrons in total.
3. Write the full electron configuration for silicon by filling orbitals in order: 1s^2 2s^2 2p^6 3s^2 3p^2.
4. Identify the valence shell as the third shell (n=3) because it is the highest occupied energy level for silicon.
5. Extract the valence electron configuration from the outermost shell: 3s^2 3p^2.