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How many electrons are in the outer (valence) shell of an Al⁺ ion?

a) 1
b) 2
c) 3
d) 0

User SergA
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1 Answer

5 votes

Final answer:

An Al+ ion has zero valence electrons because when aluminum becomes a +3 cation, it loses its three valence electrons, resembling the noble gas configuration of neon.

Step-by-step explanation:

The Al+ ion has zero electrons in its outer shell, or valence shell. The aluminum atom normally has three valence electrons in its third energy level, specifically in the configuration 3s23p1. However, when it forms an Al3+ cation, it loses these three electrons. This results in the ion having the electron configuration of the noble gas neon, 1s22s22p6, which means all inner shells are filled, and there are no electrons in the outermost shell. So, the correct answer is d) 0.

User Sydnee
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