Multiple Choice
What occurs in a chemical reaction?
1. Intro to General Chemistry
Chemical Properties
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What determines an atom's reactivity?
A
The number of valence electrons
B
The number of neutrons in the nucleus
C
The atomic mass of the atom
D
The number of protons in the nucleus
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand that an atom's reactivity is primarily determined by its electron configuration, particularly the electrons in the outermost shell, known as valence electrons.
Recall that valence electrons are responsible for the chemical properties of an element, as they are the electrons involved in forming bonds with other atoms.
Consider that atoms tend to react in ways that allow them to achieve a full valence shell, often resembling the electron configuration of the nearest noble gas.
Recognize that the number of neutrons in the nucleus does not directly affect an atom's reactivity, as neutrons are neutral particles and do not participate in chemical bonding.
Note that while the atomic mass and the number of protons (which defines the element) are important for identifying an element, they do not directly determine reactivity. The key factor is the number of valence electrons.
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