What makes atoms more stable?
having high chemical reactivity with water
having 8 valence electrons
forming bonds with noble gases
having 10 valence electrons
Having 8 valence electrons.
Having 8 valence electrons
To determine what makes atoms more stable, we need to consider the factors that affect their stability. Stability in atoms is closely related to their electron configuration, specifically the arrangement of electrons in the outermost energy level called the valence shell. Here are the factors that contribute to increased stability in atoms:
1. Having 8 valence electrons: The octet rule states that atoms tend to be more stable when they have a full outermost energy level containing eight electrons. This is referred to as achieving an octet configuration. Atoms with fewer valence electrons will seek to gain or lose electrons in order to achieve the stable octet configuration.
2. Forming bonds with noble gases: Noble gases are a group of elements that have the full complement of valence electrons, making them highly stable. Other atoms can increase their stability by forming chemical bonds with noble gases through electron transfer or sharing. This allows them to attain a full valence shell and reach a stable configuration.
3. Having high chemical reactivity with water: Although high chemical reactivity with water does not directly contribute to stability, it can indicate the potential for increased stability. Highly reactive atoms, such as alkali metals and halogens, tend to be less stable due to their incomplete valence shells, which makes them more prone to reactive behavior.
4. Having 10 valence electrons: While atoms can have expanded octet configurations beyond eight electrons, having 10 valence electrons does not necessarily mean increased stability. The octet rule is a general guideline, and exceptions occur for atoms in the third period and beyond in the periodic table. These atoms can accommodate additional electrons in their valence shells, resulting in expanded octets.
In summary, the primary factor that contributes to increased stability in atoms is having eight valence electrons, as dictated by the octet rule. Forming bonds with noble gases and exhibiting high reactivity with water can indicate potential stability. However, having 10 valence electrons does not necessarily guarantee increased stability.