B Oxygen Transformation: A Puzzling Phenomenon

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The discussion centers on the behavior of atomic oxygen when interacting with free electrons. It emphasizes that the identity of an element is determined by its nucleus, not its electron configuration, which means adding or removing electrons creates ions rather than changing the element itself. Participants clarify that oxygen has an atomic number of 8 and an atomic mass of 16, and that these values remain unchanged regardless of electron interactions. The conversation raises questions about the implications of electron attraction in relation to oxygen's electron shell. Ultimately, the focus is on understanding the fundamental principles of atomic structure and electron behavior.
Pandus
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Free electrons does not affect oxygen. Or not?
Hi, guys.

Just found a missing thing in my brain: if atomic oxygen will meet free electron somewhere why doesn't it become fluorine or even argone?
 
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Because the assignation of elements is based on the nucleus, not the electron shells. If an atom gives away or takes in additional electrons, it is called an ion.
 
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Orodruin said:
Because the assignation of elements is based on the nucleus, not the electron shells. If an atom gives away or takes in additional electrons, it is called an ion.
But the charge of the nucleolus is 16. And the outer layer is missing two electrons. What would happen if electron will be attracted by P-layer?
 
Pandus said:
But the charge of the nucleolus is 16.
No, the charge of the oxygen nucleus is 8. Its atomic mass is 16. Neither of which changes by adding an electron.
 
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