Distribution of Electrons

Flashcards about electron distribution and the octet rule.

What rule dictates how electrons occupy shells?

The Octet Rule.

For atoms with atomic numbers of 20 or less, how many electrons can the first energy shell hold?

Up to two electrons (one orbital).

How many electrons can each additional shell hold (for atoms with atomic numbers of 20 or less)?

Up to 8 electrons (four orbitals).

What are the outermost electrons of an atom called?

Valence Electrons

What do unpaired valence electrons do?

Form bonds with other atoms to become more stable.