Multiple Choice
According to the Law of Conservation of Mass, which of the following statements is true during a chemical reaction?
1. Intro to General Chemistry
Chemical Properties
Struggling with General Chemistry?
Join thousands of students who trust us to help them ace their exams!Watch the first videoMultiple Choice
How can a chlorine atom achieve stability according to the octet rule?
A
By gaining one electron to complete its valence shell
B
By losing one electron to achieve a full outer shell
C
By sharing two electrons with another atom
D
By gaining two electrons to fill its outer shell
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand the octet rule: Atoms are most stable when they have eight electrons in their valence shell, similar to the electron configuration of noble gases.
Identify the current electron configuration of a chlorine atom: Chlorine has an atomic number of 17, which means it has 17 electrons. Its electron configuration is \(1s^2 2s^2 2p^6 3s^2 3p^5\).
Determine the number of valence electrons: Chlorine is in Group 17 of the periodic table, which means it has 7 valence electrons in the 3rd shell (\(3s^2 3p^5\)).
Calculate how many electrons are needed to achieve a full valence shell: Since chlorine has 7 valence electrons, it needs 1 more electron to complete its octet (8 electrons in the valence shell).
Conclude how chlorine can achieve stability: By gaining one electron, chlorine can achieve a full valence shell of 8 electrons, thus satisfying the octet rule and achieving stability.
Related Videos
Related Practice
Chemical Properties practice set
Problem sets built by lead tutorsExpert video explanations