Valence Electron Chemistry Example 4
Follow the full solution, then compare it with the other examples linked below.
Example 4
mediumSodium has electron arrangement 2,8,1. How many valence electrons does it have, and is it more likely to lose one electron or gain seven?
Solution
- 1 The outermost shell has 1 electron, so sodium has 1 valence electron.
- 2 It is much easier for sodium to lose 1 electron and reveal a full shell beneath than to gain 7 more electrons.
Answer
Sodium has 1 valence electron, and it is more likely to lose 1 electron.
Valence electrons control how atoms react. Atoms often gain or lose electrons in ways that leave them with a full outer shell and a more stable arrangement.
About Valence Electron
An electron residing in the outermost (highest-energy) occupied shell of an atom, available for participation in chemical bonding through sharing, gaining, or losing.
Learn more about Valence Electron →