Chapter 4, Problem 4.20EP

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The maximum number of valence electrons that a representative element/noble gas can posses and which group of elements possess this maximum number of valence electrons has to be idenified.

Concept Introduction:

Electronic configuration of an atom is a shorthand method of writing the location of electrons in the atom.  The electrons present in the outermost shell of the atom are known as valence electrons.  The valence electron configuration of the noble gases is considered the most stable of all valence electron configurations.  Except Helium, all other noble gases possess ${\mathrm{ns}}^{2}n{p}^6$ valence electron configurations, where “n” has the maximum value found in the atom.  All noble gases have completely filled “s” and “p” orbital configuration.