Chapter 6, Problem 34A

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The Nobel gas which does not have eight electrons in its highest occupied energy level is to be identified.

Concept Introduction :

In the periodic table, elements are arranged in 18 vertical columns called groups. The Nobel gases are placed in group 18 and have stable electronic configurations.

Answer to Problem 34A

  $\text{He}$

Explanation of Solution

Nobel gases are chemically unreactive because of a complete octet (eight electrons in its highest occupied shell) or stable electronic configuration. The only Nobel gas which does not have eight electronsin its outermost shell is helium $\left(\text{He}\right)$ . This is because the atomic number of helium is 2 and its electronic configuration is,

  $\text{He}\left(2\right):1s^2$

Thus, the Nobel element which does have eight electrons in its outermost shell is helium.