Final answer:
The valence electrons impact the type of bonds an atom makes by influencing the atom's reactivity; atoms tend to form bonds to achieve a stable electron configuration in their valence shell.
Step-by-step explanation:
Valence electrons are paramount in determining the type of chemical bonds an atom can make. These outer-shell electrons are responsible for an atom's reactivity in the formation of compounds. When considering the choice provided, the correct answer is (c) They influence the atom's reactivity, as valence electrons do not govern charge, atomic position, or mass directly—they are a key factor in how an atom will join with others to fulfill its valence shell.
An atom with a full valence shell tends to be stable, while an atom with an incomplete valence shell is more reactive and seeks to form bonds, either by sharing electrons (covalent bonds) or by transferring electrons (ionic bonds), to achieve stability.
Group trends in the periodic table also depend on the configuration of valence electrons, with elements within the same group having similar valence electron setups and thus, similar chemical properties.