How many valence electrons does a neutral atom of chlorine possess?

• A. 5
• B. 8
• C. 7
• D. 1

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the element in question, which is chlorine (Cl).
2. Recall that valence electrons are the electrons in the outermost shell of an atom that participate in chemical bonding.
3. Determine the electron configuration of chlorine. Chlorine has an atomic number of 17, so it has 17 electrons.
4. Write the electron configuration for chlorine: \$1s^{2} 2s^{2} 2p^{6} 3s^{2} 3p^{5}$.
5. Count the electrons in the outermost shell (the third shell): \$3s^{2} 3p^{5}$, which totals 7 valence electrons.