Which statement best describes the octet rule in chemistry?

• A. Atoms with eight electrons in their outer shell are always unstable.
• B. Atoms form bonds only when they have eight neutrons.
• C. Atoms always have eight protons in their nucleus.
• D. Atoms tend to gain, lose, or share electrons to achieve eight electrons in their valence shell.

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that the octet rule is a principle in chemistry that explains how atoms achieve stability by having eight electrons in their outermost shell, also called the valence shell.
2. Recognize that atoms tend to gain, lose, or share electrons through chemical bonds to reach this stable configuration of eight valence electrons, similar to the electron configuration of noble gases.
3. Note that the octet rule does not relate to the number of neutrons or protons in the atom, but specifically to the arrangement of electrons in the valence shell.
4. Realize that atoms with eight electrons in their outer shell are generally stable, not unstable, which is why they tend to form bonds to reach this state.
5. Therefore, the best description of the octet rule is that atoms tend to gain, lose, or share electrons to achieve eight electrons in their valence shell.