Question

Why does the octet rule not always refer to a stable arrangement of eight valence electrons

Answer 1

Answer:

Explanation:

The octet rule does not always refer to a stable arrangement of eight valence electrons because there are some element that do not have eight valence electrons yet they are stable. for example;

i) Helium, It has two valence electrons and it is a stable gas.

ii) Boron triflouride (BF3); it has  six valence electrons (deficit valence electron) yet it is also stable.

iii) Phosphorus pentachloride (PCl5); it has more than eight valence electron and it is also stable.

For these few reasons it is not always advisable to say octet arrangement refer to stable eight valence electrons.