Question

All of the noble gases, Group 18, have eight valence electrons in its outer shell (excluding helium which only has two). Which of these would represent the oxidation number of the noble gases such as xenon and argon?

Answer 1

Answer:

Zero or +2

Explanation:

The noble gases already have a avplete outermost shell. They are the least reactive elements of earth?

Their normal oxidation number is zero but some have been shown to be reactive.

Answer 2

Answer:

Explanation:

Since oxidation number is derived from the number of electron in the outermost shell of an element and further more this oxidation number is a function of how much electron is needed by an element to achieve a duplet ( He) or octet configuration ( complete outer most shell which is the attributes of group  18 elements or noble gases) and they don't readily react with any compound.. Since Xenon and argon are noble gases , they will have their outer most shell completely feel hence their oxidation number will be zero (0)