Which statement best describes the octet rule and its role in explaining why atoms bond?

• A. Atoms bond to achieve a total of eight neutrons in their nucleus.
• B. Atoms bond to maximize the number of protons in their nucleus.
• C. Atoms bond to decrease the number of electrons in their outermost shell.
• D. Atoms tend to bond in order to achieve eight electrons in their valence shell, resulting in greater stability.

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that the octet rule is a chemical principle stating that atoms tend to form bonds to have eight electrons in their outermost electron shell (valence shell), which leads to greater stability.
2. Recognize that atoms bond by either sharing, gaining, or losing electrons to complete their valence shell with eight electrons, similar to the electron configuration of noble gases.
3. Note that the octet rule does not involve changes in the number of protons or neutrons in the nucleus; it specifically concerns the arrangement of electrons in the outer shell.
4. Realize that atoms do not bond to decrease the number of electrons in their outer shell, but rather to fill or complete it to eight electrons, achieving a stable electronic configuration.
5. Therefore, the best description of the octet rule's role in bonding is that atoms bond to achieve eight electrons in their valence shell, resulting in greater stability.