Which element has 2 valence electrons and is located in period 4 of the periodic table?

• A. Magnesium (Mg)
• B. Beryllium (Be)
• C. Calcium (Ca)
• D. Potassium (K)

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the meaning of 'valence electrons': these are the electrons in the outermost shell of an atom that participate in chemical bonding.
2. Recall that elements in the same group (vertical column) of the periodic table have the same number of valence electrons.
3. Recognize that elements with 2 valence electrons belong to Group 2, also known as the alkaline earth metals.
4. Determine the period (horizontal row) number, which corresponds to the highest principal energy level (n) occupied by electrons in the element.
5. Look for the element in Group 2 and Period 4; this element has 2 valence electrons and is located in the 4th row of the periodic table.