Question

The electronic configuration of phosphorous is 2,8,5 , its valency is

• A. 3
• B. 5
• C. 8
• D. 2

Answer 1

The correct option is A

3

1. The electronic configuration of phosphorous is 2,8,5.
2. To achieve a stable configuration an element must have completely filled outermost shell. Phosphorous can either lose 5 electrons or can gain 3 electrons to become stable.
3. Gaining 3 electrons is easier than losing 5 electrons. So, the valency of phosphorous is 3.

Hence the correct option is (A) 3.