The atomic structure of water (H_2O) satisfies the octet rule by having:

• A. all atoms in water sharing a total of eight electrons
• B. each hydrogen atom surrounded by eight electrons in its valence shell
• C. the oxygen atom surrounded by eight electrons in its valence shell
• D. the oxygen atom sharing eight electrons with each hydrogen atom

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Recall the octet rule, which states that atoms tend to gain, lose, or share electrons to have eight electrons in their valence shell, achieving a stable electron configuration similar to noble gases.
2. Identify the atoms in a water molecule: one oxygen atom and two hydrogen atoms. Oxygen has six valence electrons, and each hydrogen has one valence electron.
3. Understand that hydrogen atoms follow the duet rule, meaning they are stable with two electrons in their valence shell, not eight.
4. Recognize that in water, oxygen shares electrons with two hydrogen atoms through covalent bonds, allowing oxygen to complete its octet by having eight electrons around it.
5. Conclude that the correct statement is that the oxygen atom is surrounded by eight electrons in its valence shell, while each hydrogen atom is surrounded by two electrons.