Q
QuestionChemistry

How many valence electrons are in an atom of magnesium (atomic number 12)?
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Answer

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Step 1
: Recall the definition of valence electrons

Valence electrons are the outermost electrons in an atom that can participate in the formation of chemical bonds with other atoms.

Step 2
: Understand how to find valence electrons using the atomic number

The atomic number of an element is the number of protons in the nucleus of an atom of that element. The atomic number also equals the number of electrons in a neutral atom.

Final Answer

An atom of magnesium has 2 valence electrons.