Q
QuestionChemistry

"Which of the following phrases describes valence electrons? A. Electrons that are part of the core of the atom B. Electrons that are closest to the nucleus C. Electrons that are farthest from the nucleus D. Electrons identified by the period number of the element"
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Answer

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Step 1
**Step 1:** Understand the definition of valence electrons.

Valence electrons are the outermost electrons in an atom and are involved in the formation of chemical bonds with other atoms. They are located on the outermost energy level of an atom. **Step 2:** Identify the options that do not describe valence electrons. Option A: Electrons that are part of the core of the atom - These are not valence electrons, as they are located in the inner energy levels and not involved in chemical bonding. Option B: Electrons that are closest to the nucleus - These are also not valence electrons, as they are located in the inner energy levels. Between the remaining options, C and D, option D is the correct answer. **Step 3:** Explain why option D is the correct answer. Option D: Electrons identified by the period number of the element - This is the correct answer because the period number of an element corresponds to its outermost energy level. The valence electrons are located on the outermost energy level, so they can be identified by the period number of the element. **

Final Answer

** The correct answer is option D: Electrons identified by the period number of the element.