The correct statement that describes the pattern of valence electrons seen on the periodic table is:
D. The number of valence electrons increases across a period from left to right, and the valence shell number increases from top to bottom.
In detail:
- As you move from left to right across a period, the number of valence electrons in the outer shell of the elements increases.
- As you move down a group in the periodic table, the principal quantum number (valence shell number) increases, indicating that the electrons are found in higher energy levels.