Help with stability of full valence shell

In summary, having a full valence shell contributes to stability by achieving a stable electron configuration. This is due to the fact that a full valence shell is more energetically favorable for an atom. The octet rule is significant in relation to stability as it states that atoms tend to gain, lose, or share electrons in order to achieve a full outer shell with eight electrons. This helps to increase stability as a full outer shell is more stable. The stability of an atom can change when it gains or loses electrons, depending on its position on the periodic table. External factors such as electronegativity, electric fields, and temperature can also affect the stability of a full valence shell. This stability is crucial in chemical bonding as atoms
  • #1
scott_alexsk
336
0
Hello,
I am wondering about the real explanation that atoms have a tendency to have higher stablity with a full valence shell. What forces are at work here besides the 'happy' atom.
-Scott
 
Chemistry news on Phys.org
  • #2
Is this the wrong area for this thread or something else?
 
  • #3
You already asked the same question and received a detailed response
 
  • #4
Yeah, but I asked here first and for some reason, it was not an appropriate question for this area, I suppose. That is why I asked the question in the other area.
 
  • #5
Let the discussion proceed in the other forum.
 

FAQ: Help with stability of full valence shell

How does having a full valence shell contribute to stability?

A full valence shell means that an atom has achieved a stable electron configuration, as it has filled all of its available valence orbitals. This results in a more energetically favorable state for the atom, making it more stable.

What is the significance of the octet rule in relation to stability?

The octet rule states that atoms tend to gain, lose, or share electrons in order to achieve a full outer shell with eight electrons. This is because a full outer shell is more stable, and thus following the octet rule helps to increase stability in atoms.

How does the stability of an atom change when it gains or loses electrons?

When an atom gains or loses electrons, its valence shell may become more or less full. This can result in a more stable or less stable electron configuration, depending on the specific atom and its position on the periodic table.

Can the stability of a full valence shell be affected by external factors?

Yes, the stability of a full valence shell can be influenced by external factors such as electronegativity of surrounding atoms, applied electric fields, and temperature. These factors can impact the arrangement of electrons and thus the stability of an atom's valence shell.

How does the stability of a full valence shell relate to chemical bonding?

The stability of a full valence shell is a key factor in chemical bonding. Atoms with incomplete valence shells are more likely to form chemical bonds in order to achieve a full valence shell, resulting in increased stability. This is seen in both ionic and covalent bonding.

Back
Top