Why are valence electrons important?

1 Answer
Nam D.
Mar 19, 2018

They give us the reactivity of the elements.

Explanation:

If the valence electrons of elements are really close or really far to 88, like 11 or 77, those elements tend to be very reactive, and don't generally have a lot of oxidation states.

The alkali metals (group 11 elements) each have 11 valence electrons, so they tend to be very reactive, and readily lose that electron.

The halogens (group 77 or 1717 elements) each have 77 valence electrons, and will react with almost anything just to get that extra electron to complete its octet.

Have a look at the elements on the periodic table:

https://www.ptable.com/https://www.ptable.com/

Can you predict on which elements are going to be reactive?

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