Which statement correctly compares the valence electrons for atoms of francium (Fr) and barium (Ba)?

Question

(1 point)
Barium has fewer valence electrons, but they are in a higher energy level.
Francium has fewer valence electrons, but they are in a higher energy level.
Francium has more valence electrons, and they are in a higher energy level.
Barium has more valence electrons, and they are in a higher energy level.

Answer 1

To compare the valence electrons for francium (Fr) and barium (Ba):

• Barium (Ba) is in Group 2 of the periodic table, meaning it has 2 valence electrons (in its outermost shell).
• Francium (Fr) is in Group 1, which means it has 1 valence electron.

When considering the energy levels:

• Barium is located in the 6th period, where its valence electrons are in the 6th energy level.
• Francium is located in the 7th period, where its valence electron is in the 7th energy level.

Based on this information, the correct comparison would be:

Francium has fewer valence electrons, but they are in a higher energy level.

This matches the following option: "Francium has fewer valence electrons, but they are in a higher energy level." (This option should be selected if it is available in your context).