Try it on paper first. A hint, the key idea and the worked solution are here when you need them.
Potassium has an atomic number of .
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. (a) electrons: .
Step 2. (b) outer electron: valency .
Step 3. (c) It loses that electron and becomes , with the arrangement of argon.
Step 4. (d) K has valency , O has valency . Crossing over: .
Answer: (a) . (b) . (c) . (d) .
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