Multiple Choice
The electrons involved in the formation of a chemical bond are called:
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11. Bonding & Molecular Structure
Chemical Bonds
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Why do elements form compounds?
A
To become radioactive
B
To decrease their mass number
C
To achieve a more stable electron configuration, often by attaining a full valence shell
D
To increase their atomic number
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand that elements form compounds primarily to achieve greater stability in their electron arrangements.
Recall that atoms are most stable when they have a full valence shell, which usually means having eight electrons in their outermost shell (the octet rule), except for some elements like hydrogen and helium.
Recognize that atoms can achieve a full valence shell by either sharing electrons (covalent bonding), transferring electrons (ionic bonding), or through metallic bonding.
Note that forming compounds does not affect the atomic number or mass number of the atoms involved; these properties are related to the nucleus and remain unchanged during chemical bonding.
Conclude that the driving force behind compound formation is the attainment of a more stable electron configuration, not changes in radioactivity or atomic/mass numbers.
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