Valence electrons - intro

Valence Electrons

Electrons that are located in the outermost shell of an atom and are involved in chemical bonding.

Metal

Atoms that are positively charged and typically lose electrons.

Nonmetal

Atoms that are negatively charged and typically gain electrons.

Stable Atom

An atom with 8 valence electrons, typically found in noble gases, that does not react.

Charge of Metal Ions

Always positively charged as they lose electrons.

Charge of Nonmetal Ions

Always negatively charged as they gain electrons.

Group Number and Charge Relation

To find the charge of an atom, subtract 18 from the group number.

4 Valence Electrons (Carbon)

Typically does not form a charge.

Valence Electron Count for Positively Charged Atoms

Atoms with 1, 2, or 3 valence electrons tend to become positively charged.

Valence Electron Count for Negatively Charged Atoms

Atoms with 5, 6, or 7 valence electrons tend to gain electrons to become negatively charged.