Answer:
The correct answer is: the number of valence electrons
Step-by-step explanation:
Valence electrons are the electrons present in the outermost electron shell of an atom, also known as the valence shell. If the valence shell is not completely filled, then it is known as an open shell.
The number of valence electrons governs the reactivity and bonding of an element, as they are involved in the chemical bond formation. Therefore, chemical elements having an open shell are reactive in nature.
Therefore, the reactivity of a chemical element is closely related to the number of valence electrons.