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).

Related questions
See all questions in Valence Electrons
Impact of this question
2699 views around the world
You can reuse this answer
Creative Commons License