Multiple Choice
Where are the protons and neutrons located in an atom?
2. Atoms & Elements
The Atom
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Atoms are chemically the most stable when which of the following occurs?
A
They have an odd number of electrons in their valence shell.
B
They have a full valence shell of eight electrons.
C
They have more protons than electrons.
D
They have a half-filled valence shell.
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand the concept of chemical stability: Atoms are most stable when their outermost electron shell, known as the valence shell, is full. This is often referred to as the 'octet rule' for many elements, meaning they are stable with eight electrons in their valence shell.
Recognize that the octet rule is a guiding principle for the stability of atoms, particularly for main-group elements. This rule is based on the observation that atoms tend to gain, lose, or share electrons to achieve a full set of eight valence electrons.
Consider the options given: An odd number of electrons in the valence shell does not typically confer stability, as it does not satisfy the octet rule.
Evaluate the option of having more protons than electrons: This would result in a positively charged ion, which is not inherently stable without a corresponding balance of electrons.
Assess the option of a half-filled valence shell: While certain configurations (like half-filled d or f subshells) can be relatively stable due to electron exchange energy, they do not generally apply to the main-group elements' stability in the context of the octet rule.
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