Unit 3: Valance electrons, shielding efftect, and Coulomb’s law

These flashcards cover essential definitions and concepts related to electron configuration, electrostatic forces, and electron shielding.

Valence Electrons

Electrons in the highest energy level; only P and S count, with a limit of 8.

Electrostatic Force

The attraction between the valence electrons and nucleus based on distance, described by the equation F = Q1 x Q2 / R2.

Q1 in the Electrostatic Force Equation

Represents the nucleus in the equation for force between two charges.

Q2 in the Electrostatic Force Equation

Represents the electron in the equation for force between two charges.

R in the Electrostatic Force Equation

The distance between the nucleus and the electron in the electrostatic force equation.

Electron Shielding

Inner electrons in an atom block or "shield" outer electrons from the full attractive force of the positively charged nucleus.

Coulomb’s Law

The attraction between the valence electrons and nucleus based off the distance