Answer:
The law of definite proportions
Explanation:
The law of definite proportions states that atoms combine in a molecule in a specific molar ratio or specific stoichiometry. For example, it's proved that regardless of the quantity we take, two hydrogen atoms always combine with one oxygen atom to form a water molecule.
Similarly, ionic substances follow the same pattern. Since the net charge of ionic salts should be equal to 0 and each element has a definite number of valence electrons in its shell all the time, the ions combine in a way, so that cations balance the charge of anions.
Essentially, the law of definite proportions is applicable and will be applicable in the future, since we know that each element has a fixed number of valence electrons in its ground state.
Your answer would come out to 18 electrons
