Question

Write the number of electrons present in the outermost shells of the following elements. (2 marks)
Lithium, carbon, oxygen, and sodium.

Answer 1

• Lithium:
  Atomic number = 3. So, the electronic configuration = 2, 1. So, 1 electron is present in the outermost shell. (0.5 marks)
• Carbon:
  Atomic number = 6. So, the electronic configuration = 2, 4. So, 4 electrons are present in the outermost shell. (0.5 marks)
• Oxygen:
  Atomic number = 8. So, the electronic configuration = 2, 6. So, 6 electrons are present in the outermost shell. (0.5 marks)
• Sodium:
  Atomic number = 11. So, the electronic configuration = 2, 8, 1. So, 1 electron is present in the outermost shell. (0.5 marks)