Multiple Choice
Why does an atom with many valence electrons tend to gain electrons rather than lose any?
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10. Periodic Properties of the Elements
Valence Electrons of Elements
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Join thousands of students who trust us to help them ace their exams!Watch the first videoMultiple Choice
How many valence electrons does an atom of aluminum (Al) possess?
A
5
B
1
C
8
D
3
Verified step by step guidance1
Identify the atomic number of aluminum (Al), which is 13, meaning it has 13 electrons in total.
Determine the electron configuration of aluminum to understand the distribution of electrons in its shells. The configuration is \$1s^2 2s^2 2p^6 3s^2 3p^1$.
Recognize that valence electrons are the electrons in the outermost shell (highest principal quantum number). For aluminum, this is the third shell (n=3).
Count the electrons in the outermost shell: \$3s^2\( and \)3p^1$ add up to 3 valence electrons.
Conclude that aluminum has 3 valence electrons based on its electron configuration and the definition of valence electrons.
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