Octet Rule Chemistry Example 1
Follow the full solution, then compare it with the other examples linked below.
Example 1
easyState the octet rule and explain why atoms tend to follow it.
Solution
- 1 The octet rule states that atoms tend to gain, lose, or share electrons until they have 8 electrons in their outermost shell (valence shell).
- 2 This configuration matches the electron arrangement of the noble gases, which are extremely stable.
- 3 Having a full outer shell (8 electrons) represents the lowest energy state, so atoms naturally tend toward this configuration through chemical bonding.
Answer
The octet rule is a guiding principle in chemistry that explains why atoms form bonds. It applies primarily to main-group elements in periods 2 and 3. Hydrogen is an exception ā it needs only 2 electrons (a duet).
About Octet Rule
A chemical bonding principle stating that atoms tend to gain, lose, or share electrons in order to achieve a stable configuration of 8 electrons in.
Learn more about Octet Rule āMore Octet Rule Examples
Example 2 medium
Use the octet rule to explain why sodium forms [formula] and chlorine forms [formula] when they reac
Example 3 mediumUse the octet rule to explain why oxygen forms two covalent bonds in a water molecule ([formula]).
Example 4 hardIdentify two exceptions to the octet rule and give a specific molecular example of each.