Multiple Choice
For a main-group element, what is the simplest way to determine how many valence electrons it has using the periodic table?
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9. Electrons in Atoms and the Periodic Table
Valence Electrons of Elements (Simplified)
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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 the carbon atom possess?
A
4
B
2
C
6
D
3
Verified step by step guidance1
Identify the atomic number of carbon, which is 6. This number represents the total number of protons and, in a neutral atom, also the total number of electrons.
Understand that electrons are arranged in energy levels or shells around the nucleus. The first shell can hold up to 2 electrons, and the second shell can hold up to 8 electrons.
Distribute the 6 electrons of carbon into these shells. The first shell will be filled with 2 electrons.
Place the remaining electrons in the second shell. Since carbon has 6 electrons in total and 2 are in the first shell, the second shell will have 4 electrons.
Recognize that the electrons in the outermost shell are called valence electrons. Therefore, carbon has 4 valence electrons in its outer shell.
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