[Campbell Biology P.83] Based on the information presented in the text and Figure 2.7, whic... | Practice Question
Based on the information presented in the text and Figure 2.7, which element is most likely to be chemically stable due to its electron distribution?
Explanation
The text states that 'the chemical behavior of an atom is determined by the distribution of electrons in the atom's electron shells.' Figure 2.7 shows Argon 18Ar with its outermost third shell completely filled with 8 electrons. Elements with full outermost electron shells like noble gases are generally chemically stable, as they have little tendency to gain, lose, or share electrons.