📚 Topic Summary
Valence electrons are the electrons in the outermost shell of an atom. These electrons are responsible for forming chemical bonds with other atoms. The number of valence electrons an atom has determines its chemical properties and how it will interact with other elements. Understanding valence electrons is crucial for predicting how elements will combine to form compounds. Knowing the valence electrons helps to predict the charge of an atom and how it will form chemical bonds.
🧪 Part A: Vocabulary
Match the following terms with their correct definitions:
| Term |
Definition |
| 1. Valence Electrons |
A. The ability of an atom to attract bonding electrons in a chemical bond. |
| 2. Octet Rule |
B. The outermost shell of an atom. |
| 3. Electronegativity |
C. Atoms gain, lose, or share electrons to achieve a full outer shell. |
| 4. Valence Shell |
D. Electrons involved in chemical bonding. |
| 5. Lewis Structure |
E. A diagram that shows the bonding between atoms of a molecule and the lone pairs of electrons that may exist in the molecule. |
✍️ Part B: Fill in the Blanks
Complete the following paragraph with the correct words:
The number of _________ electrons determines an atom's chemical _________. Atoms tend to gain, lose, or share electrons to achieve a stable _________ with eight electrons in their valence shell, following the _________ rule. This drive towards stability dictates how atoms will form _________ bonds with each other.
🤔 Part C: Critical Thinking
Explain how the concept of valence electrons helps us understand why certain elements are more reactive than others.