Chapter U1.19, Problem 2E

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The meaning of the noble gas envy needs to be explained.

Concept introduction:

Noble gases are those which are most non-reactive gases in the periodic table. Some of these gases are helium (He), Neon (Ne), argon (Ar) etc. They belong to group 18 of the periodic table.

Answer to Problem 2E

Noble gas envy is a term which is used to explain the tendency of all the elements to have stable electronic configurations.

Explanation of Solution

All the noble gases have very stable electronic configurations. There are eight electrons in the valence shell which is known as octet configuration (for helium its duplet).

Elements try to attain octet configuration either by removal of electrons or by gaining electrons in case of ionic bonding. In case of covalent bonding elements equally share electrons to have complete octets and stable electronic configurations. This general tendency of elements is known as noble gas envy.

Conclusion

Tendency of getting octet configuration by elements is known as noble gas envy.