Which part of an atom is primarily involved in chemical bonding?

• A. Protons in the nucleus
• B. Valence electrons
• C. Core electrons
• D. Neutrons in the nucleus

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that chemical bonding involves the interaction between atoms to form molecules or compounds.
2. Recall that atoms consist of a nucleus (containing protons and neutrons) and electrons arranged in shells around the nucleus.
3. Recognize that protons and neutrons are located in the nucleus and do not participate directly in bonding because they are held tightly inside the nucleus.
4. Identify that electrons in the outermost shell, called valence electrons, are the ones that interact with other atoms to form chemical bonds.
5. Conclude that valence electrons are primarily involved in chemical bonding, as they can be shared, gained, or lost to achieve stable electron configurations.