Electronic structure - Outer shell

In summary, determining the outer shell structure from the electronic structure involves finding the subset of the full electronic configuration. This can be done by using the atomic number to determine the number of electrons in the atom. The outer shell is where electrons are lost or gained, depending on the element's electropositive or electronegative nature. An atom becomes stable when it has an octet configuration, and the number of electrons in a particular orbit can be calculated using the formula 2n^2.
  • #1
benedwards2020
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Can someone tell me how the outer shell structure is determined from the electronic structure. I know i can look this up but I'd like to know how it is derived and are there any rules I should follow so i can determine them myself?
 
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  • #2
  • #3
I may not got the point correct, but all i know about the last shell is that its where electrons are lost and gained depending on the electropositive or electropositive nature of the element.
The atomic number of the element can help you identify the number of electrons in the atom.
the number of electrons in a particular orbit is given by 2n^2(you may know all this, but still).
the atom doesn't becum stale until it has an octet config.
 

1. What is the outer shell of an atom?

The outer shell of an atom, also known as the valence shell, is the outermost energy level or orbit in which electrons are found. It is the region where chemical bonding occurs between atoms.

2. How many electrons can the outer shell hold?

The number of electrons that can occupy the outer shell of an atom varies depending on the element. Generally, the outer shell can hold a maximum of 8 electrons.

3. How does the number of electrons in the outer shell affect an atom's reactivity?

The number of electrons in the outer shell determines an atom's reactivity. Atoms with incomplete outer shells tend to be more reactive as they seek to gain, lose, or share electrons to achieve a stable outer shell configuration.

4. How does the outer shell configuration determine an element's placement on the periodic table?

The outer shell configuration plays a crucial role in determining an element's placement on the periodic table. Elements with similar outer shell electron configurations are grouped together in the same column or group on the periodic table.

5. How does the outer shell affect an atom's physical properties?

The outer shell of an atom influences its physical properties, such as melting and boiling points, as well as its ability to conduct electricity. These properties are determined by the number and arrangement of electrons in the outer shell.

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