Do metalloids have a complete outermost shell?

To determine if metalloids have a complete outermost shell, we need to understand the concept of electron configuration. In an atom, electrons are organized into shells or energy levels. The outermost shell is known as the valence shell.

A complete outermost shell is achieved when the valence shell is filled with electrons. For most elements, the octet rule applies, meaning they strive to have eight electrons in their valence shell to achieve stability, resembling the electron configuration of noble gases.

Metalloids, also known as semi-metals, are a group of elements that exhibit properties of both metals and non-metals. They are found along the stair-step line on the periodic table and include elements like boron, silicon, germanium, arsenic, antimony, and tellurium.

The electron configurations of metalloids can vary. Some metalloids may have a complete outermost shell, while others may not. For example, boron has an electron configuration of 2-3, where the valence shell is not filled. On the other hand, tellurium has an electron configuration of 2-8-18-18-6, with six electrons in the valence shell, making it close to having a complete outermost shell.

Therefore, it is not accurate to say that metalloids universally possess a complete outermost shell. The electron configuration of individual metalloids determines whether or not their valence shell is complete.