Valence Electrons Quick Check

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Question
Use the periodic table to answer the question.

An illustration shows the periodic table of elements. The elements in the periodic table are arranged in groups (columns numbered 1 through 18) and periods (rows numbered 1 through 7) such that the atomic number increases along a period from left to right. The elements are divided into the following categories: · Alkali metals · Alkaline earth metals · Transition metals · Post-transition metals · Lanthanides · Actinides · Metalloids · Nonmetals · Noble gases · Unknown The elements are also classified on the basis of their physical states as follows: · Solid · Liquid · Gas · Unknown The element sulfur is enlarged with the following properties. · Chemical symbol: S · Name: Sulfur · Atomic Number: 16 · Atomic mass: 32.06 · Common oxidation states: 6, 4, 2, negative 2 · Electronegativity: 2.58 · Ionization energies: 999.589 · Electron configuration: [Ne] 3s2 3p4



Which atom generally obtains a stable configuration by sharing electrons?

(1 point)
Responses

phosphorus (P)
phosphorus (P)

chlorine (Cl)
chlorine (Cl)

magnesium (Mg)
magnesium (Mg)

lithium (Li)
lithium (Li)
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Answer 1

The atom that generally obtains a stable configuration by sharing electrons is chlorine (Cl). Chlorine is a nonmetal and typically forms covalent bonds by sharing electrons with other atoms to achieve a stable electron configuration, usually reaching an octet in its outer electron shell.

Phosphorus can also share electrons, but it's not as commonly highlighted in this context. Magnesium and lithium are metals that tend to lose electrons rather than share them.

Therefore, the best answer is chlorine (Cl).