According to the octet rule, how many electrons does an atom typically need in its outer shell to achieve stability?

• A. 8
• B. 10
• C. 6
• D. 2

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the octet rule: it states that atoms tend to gain, lose, or share electrons to have eight electrons in their outermost shell, which is associated with maximum stability.
2. Recognize that the octet rule applies mainly to main-group elements, especially those in the second period of the periodic table, such as carbon, nitrogen, oxygen, and fluorine.
3. Recall that the outer shell (valence shell) is considered stable when it has 8 electrons, similar to the electron configuration of noble gases.
4. Note exceptions to the octet rule exist, but the typical number of electrons needed for stability according to the rule is 8.
5. Therefore, the number of electrons an atom typically needs in its outer shell to achieve stability is 8.