Multiple Choice
How many valence electrons does silicon (Si) have?
9. Electrons in Atoms and the Periodic Table
Valence Electrons of Elements (Simplified)
Multiple Choice
How many valence electrons are in a neutral lithium atom (Li)?
A
3
B
1
C
7
D
2
Verified step by step guidance1
Identify the atomic number of lithium (Li), which is 3. This means a neutral lithium atom has 3 protons and 3 electrons.
Recall that valence electrons are the electrons in the outermost shell (energy level) of an atom.
Determine the electron configuration of lithium. The first shell (1s) can hold 2 electrons, so the first 2 electrons fill the 1s orbital.
The remaining electron goes into the second shell (2s), which is the outermost shell for lithium.
Conclude that lithium has 1 valence electron because there is only one electron in its outermost shell.
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