Which outer electron configuration would you expect to belong to a reactive nonmetal? a. ns² b. ns²np⁶ c. ns²np⁵ d. ns²np²

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the characteristics of a reactive nonmetal. Reactive nonmetals typically have high electronegativity and a strong tendency to gain electrons to achieve a stable electron configuration.
2. Consider the electron configurations provided: a. ns^2, b. ns^2np^6, c. ns^2np^5, d. ns^2np^2.
3. Recall that a stable electron configuration is often a full outer shell, which is ns^2np^6, corresponding to noble gases that are not reactive.
4. Recognize that a configuration of ns^2np^5 indicates one electron short of a full p subshell, making it highly reactive as it tends to gain one electron to achieve stability.
5. Conclude that the electron configuration ns^2np^5 is characteristic of a reactive nonmetal, as it is one electron away from achieving a stable noble gas configuration.

Key Concepts

Electron Configuration

Electron configuration describes the distribution of electrons in an atom's orbitals. It is represented using the notation of subshells (s, p, d, f) and their respective electron counts. Understanding electron configuration is crucial for predicting an element's chemical properties, including its reactivity.

Reactivity of Nonmetals

Nonmetals are elements that typically gain electrons during chemical reactions, leading to the formation of anions. Their reactivity is largely influenced by their outer electron configuration, particularly the number of valence electrons. Nonmetals with nearly full outer shells tend to be more reactive as they seek to achieve a stable electron configuration.

Valence Electrons

Valence electrons are the electrons in the outermost shell of an atom and are responsible for an element's chemical behavior. The number of valence electrons determines how an element interacts with others, including its tendency to gain, lose, or share electrons. For nonmetals, having five or more valence electrons typically indicates a higher reactivity.