Question

Which of the following is the reason for the reactivity of elements?

• A. Passing of electric current.
• B. Change of physical state.
• C. Tendency to attain noble gas configuration.
• D. pH value of the element.

Answer 1

The correct option is C Tendency to attain noble gas configuration.

All elements try to attain a noble gas configuration, i.e. a completely filled outermost shell, to attain stability. They do this either by sharing, gaining or losing electrons. This is the reason behind the reactivity of elements.
Example: Sodium atom ($\text{Na}$) tends to lose an electron to attain stability.