Open Question
Consider the following four molecules. which of these satisfy the octet rule and which do not?
11. Bonding & Molecular Structure
Octet Rule
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How many more electrons does carbon need to satisfy the octet rule in its outer shell?
A
6 electrons
B
8 electrons
C
2 electrons
D
4 electrons
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand the octet rule: Atoms tend to gain, lose, or share electrons to achieve a full set of eight valence electrons, resembling the electron configuration of a noble gas.
Identify the atomic number of carbon: Carbon has an atomic number of 6, which means it has 6 protons and, in a neutral atom, 6 electrons.
Determine the electron configuration of carbon: Carbon's electron configuration is 1s² 2s² 2p², indicating it has 4 electrons in its outer shell (2s² 2p²).
Calculate how many more electrons are needed to satisfy the octet rule: Since carbon has 4 electrons in its outer shell, it needs 4 more electrons to reach 8 electrons and satisfy the octet rule.
Conclude that carbon needs 4 more electrons to achieve a full octet in its outer shell.
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