Multiple Choice
Which one of the following statements about atoms and subatomic particles is correct?
2. Atoms & Elements
The Atom
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What determines the reactivity of an atom?
A
The atomic number
B
The number of valence electrons
C
The number of neutrons
D
The atomic mass
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand that the reactivity of an atom is primarily determined by its tendency to gain, lose, or share electrons to achieve a full outer shell, known as the octet rule.
Recognize that the number of valence electrons, which are the electrons in the outermost shell of an atom, plays a crucial role in determining how an atom will interact with other atoms.
Recall that atoms with a nearly full or nearly empty valence shell are more reactive. For example, halogens have seven valence electrons and are highly reactive, while alkali metals have one valence electron and are also very reactive.
Consider that the atomic number, which is the number of protons in the nucleus, defines the element but does not directly determine reactivity. It is the arrangement of electrons, particularly the valence electrons, that influences reactivity.
Note that the number of neutrons and the atomic mass do not significantly affect chemical reactivity, as they do not influence the electron configuration of an atom.
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