Chapter 7, Problem 76A

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation : The relationship between the number of dots in the appropriate electron dot structure and the number of electrons in the valence shells in an atom's electron configuration diagram is to be simplified.

Concept Introduction : The electrons in an element's atoms with the highest occupied energy level are called valence electrons. Valence electrons are represented as dots in diagrams called electron dot structures.

Answer to Problem 76A

The electron dot structures for an element give the number of electrons in the valence shells of that element.

Explanation of Solution

The number of electrons in the valence shells is the valence electron.

The valence electron counts and the electron dot structure remains the same for an element.

The electron dot structure of the element gives the valence electrons of the element in the valence shell.

The only electrons used in chemical bonding are typically valence electrons.

As a result, only the valence electrons are displayed in electron dot formations.