Which of these statements best explains how chemical reactions happen?

Electrons in the outermost shells react with other atoms.

Electrons travel fastest at the center of the atom.

Electrons closest to the nucleus react with other atoms.

Electrons in the nucleus react with other atoms.

The statement "Electrons in the outermost shells react with other atoms" best explains how chemical reactions happen. Chemical reactions involve the interaction and sharing or transfer of electrons between atoms, particularly the electrons in the outermost energy levels (or valence shells) of the atoms. These outermost electrons are responsible for bonding and forming new molecules during a chemical reaction.