Try it on paper first. A hint, the key idea and the worked solution are here when you need them.
Which of these atoms have a full outer shell?
Helium (), fluorine (), neon (), sodium (), argon ().
What is special about the atoms that do?
The valence electrons are those in the outermost shell. With to of them, the valency is that number; with to , it is minus the number. A full outer shell gives a valency of . Atoms lose, gain or share electrons to reach a full outer shell, like a noble gas.
Have you tried it?
Work it out on paper first. It is fine to get stuck or make a mistake: that is how we learn. When you are ready, go through the solution one step at a time, and check each step against your own.
Step 1. Helium. Its only shell, K, holds : full.
Step 2. Neon and argon. Each has in its outer shell: full.
Step 3. Fluorine and sodium. Fluorine has , one short. Sodium has in a new shell. Neither is full.
Step 4. What is special. Helium, neon and argon are noble gases. They hardly react, and their valency is .
Answer: helium, neon and argon.
Log in to join the discussion.
Loading…