How does the number of valence electrons vary with atomic number?

1 Answer
anor277
Oct 12, 2016

The number of valence electrons increases sequentially with #Z#.

Explanation:

Read all the answers in this [thread.](https://socratic.org/questions/what-kind-of-charge-does-oxygen-have#174826) The identity of an element depends on #Z#, the atomic number, which is the number of positively charged particles in the element's nucleus.

However, if there are #Z# positive charges, in the NEUTRAL atom, there must necessarily be #Z# negative charges, supplied by #Z# electrons, all whizzing about the nucleus. Conservation of charge is a fundamental principle of Chemistry (and Physics).

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