Which of the following best describes valence electrons?

• A. Neutrons that contribute to the atomic mass but not to chemical bonding
• B. Protons in the nucleus that determine the atomic number
• C. Electrons located in the outermost shell of an atom that are involved in chemical bonding
• D. Electrons found in the innermost shell of an atom

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that valence electrons are the electrons involved in chemical bonding and determine the chemical properties of an element.
2. Recall that electrons are arranged in shells or energy levels around the nucleus of an atom, with the outermost shell being the highest energy level occupied by electrons.
3. Recognize that valence electrons are specifically those electrons located in this outermost shell, as they are the ones that can be gained, lost, or shared during chemical reactions.
4. Differentiate valence electrons from other subatomic particles: protons (which define atomic number and are in the nucleus), neutrons (which contribute to atomic mass but do not participate in bonding), and inner shell electrons (which are closer to the nucleus and generally not involved in bonding).
5. Conclude that the best description of valence electrons is 'Electrons located in the outermost shell of an atom that are involved in chemical bonding.'