Question

How many electrons does an atom generally need in its outer level to be the most stable? What is the name of this rule? What are these electrons called?

Answer 1

An atom is most stable when its outer valence shell is full, usually with eight electrons, known as the octet rule. These important electrons are called valence electrons.

Step-by-step explanation:

An atom generally needs its outermost energy level or valence shell to be full in order to be the most stable. This tenet is referred to as the octet rule, which states that atoms are most stable when they have eight electrons in their valence shell, with the exception of hydrogen and helium, which are stable with two. These eight electrons are called valence electrons. The octet rule is crucial in predicting an atom's reactivity, as atoms will tend to lose, gain, or share electrons to achieve a full valence shell. For instance, oxygen atoms need to gain two electrons to have a complete set, while magnesium atoms need to lose two electrons to be stable. Elements in group 1, such as sodium, need to lose one electron, whereas elements in groups 14 and 17, like carbon and chlorine, need to gain four and one electrons respectively to achieve stability.

Answer 2

Atoms are most stable when their outermost energy level is full with 8 electrons, known as the valence shell. This is called the octet rule and the electrons in the valence shell are called valence electrons.

Step-by-step explanation:

Atoms are most stable when their outermost energy level is full. This level is also known as the valence shell and it can hold up to 8 electrons. The rule that states atoms are more stable when they have 8 electrons in their valence shell is called the octet rule. The electrons in the outermost energy level, or valence shell, are called valence electrons. These electrons are involved in chemical reactions and determine many of the properties of an atom.