How many valence electrons does an iron (Fe) atom have in its ground state?

• A. 6
• B. 8
• C. 2
• D. 4

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Recall that valence electrons are the electrons in the outermost shell of an atom that can participate in chemical bonding.
2. Determine the electron configuration of iron (Fe) in its ground state. Iron has an atomic number of 26, so it has 26 electrons.
3. Write the electron configuration for Fe: \$1s^2 2s^2 2p^6 3s^2 3p^6 4s^2 3d^6$.
4. Identify the electrons in the outermost shell. For transition metals like Fe, the 4s and 3d electrons are considered valence electrons.
5. Count the valence electrons by adding the electrons in the 4s and 3d orbitals: \$4s^2\( and \)3d^6$ give a total of 8 valence electrons.