Which of the following best describes an octet in the context of the octet rule in chemistry?

• A. A set of $8$ valence electrons surrounding an atom, resulting in a stable electron configuration similar to noble gases
• B. A group of $8$ protons in the nucleus of an atom
• C. A chemical bond formed by sharing $8$ pairs of electrons
• D. A molecule containing $8$ atoms bonded together

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that the octet rule is a chemical concept that explains the tendency of atoms to achieve a stable electron configuration similar to that of noble gases.
2. Recall that noble gases have a full outer shell of electrons, which typically consists of 8 valence electrons (except for helium, which has 2).
3. Recognize that an 'octet' refers specifically to this set of 8 valence electrons surrounding an atom, which leads to chemical stability.
4. Eliminate options that describe protons, bonds with 8 pairs of electrons, or molecules with 8 atoms, as these do not relate to the electron configuration concept of the octet rule.
5. Conclude that the best description of an octet in this context is 'a set of 8 valence electrons surrounding an atom, resulting in a stable electron configuration similar to noble gases.'