Question

Explain how to use the valence electrons in an atom to predict if the atom will form bonds.

Answer 1

Elements in the Groups 1-4 (1-4 valence electrons) will form the same 1-4 bonds based on the number of valence electrons

Elements with one Valence will form one bond, 2 valence 2 bonds

Elements with more than five valence will form enough bonds to give the atom an octet.

Elements with 5 valence form 3 bonds; 6 valence 2 bonds etc...

Answer 2

Answer:

Explanation:

Valencia electrons are the electrons found in the last electronic layer (called valence orbitals). These electrons are what determine the ability of the atom to form bonds. When an element joins another, it does so through its valence electrons. It is also possible to say that these electrons are the electrons furthest from the nucleus of the atom, which is why they participate in chemical reactions.  Then, the valence electrons determine the reactivity of the elements.

Examples of bonds where valence electrons intervene are ionic bonds and covalent bonds.

An ionic bond is produced between metallic and non-metallic atoms, where valence electrons are completely transferred from one atom to another. During this process, one atom loses electrons and another one gains them, forming ions. Usually, the metal gives up its electrons forming a cation to the nonmetal element, which forms an anion.

An covalent bond is the chemical bond between atoms where the valence electrons are shared, forming a molecule. Covalent bonds are established between non-metallic elements, such as hydrogen H, oxygen O and chlorine Cl. These elements have many electrons in their outermost level (valence electrons) and have a tendency to gain electrons to acquire the stability of the electronic structure of noble gas. The shared electron pair is common to the two atoms and holds them together.

Another example of bonds where valence electrons intervene are metallic bonds. These are a type of chemical bond that occurs only between atoms of the same metallic element. The electrons leave their usual orbits around the atomic nucleus when it joins with another, and remain around both as a kind of cloud. It is a strong bond that forms between elements of the same species.

Finally you have noble or inert gases. Its inert name is due to the lack of reactivity with other elements. This is due to its electronic configuration, because its outermost layer or valence layer is always complete, without the need to share, transfer or receive electrons forming bonds.

Then, depending on the characteristics of the element and the amount of valence atoms, it is possible to determine the type of bond that will be produced.