According to the octet rule, how many electrons are required to fill the valence shell of most main-group elements?

• A. 6 electrons
• B. 2 electrons
• C. 8 electrons
• D. 10 electrons

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the octet rule: it 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. Recognize that the valence shell refers to the outermost electron shell of an atom, which determines its chemical properties and bonding behavior.
3. Recall that most main-group elements (especially those in groups 1, 2, and 13-18) follow the octet rule to reach stability by having 8 electrons in their valence shell.
4. Note exceptions such as hydrogen and helium, which are stable with 2 electrons (duet rule), but for most main-group elements, the target is 8 electrons.
5. Therefore, the number of electrons required to fill the valence shell of most main-group elements according to the octet rule is 8 electrons.