Valence Electrons :
The number of electrons in the outer most energy level of an atom Valence Electrons This sodium atom has
One valence electron
Electron Dot Diagram :
Shows the symbol for the atom and the valence electrons
EXAMPLE: Sodium has 1 valence electron Electron Dot Diagram Na Electron dot diagram
Electron Dot Diagram :
Carbon Electron Dot Diagram C Electron dot diagram
Uses for Electron Dot Diagrams :
Helpful in predicting how atoms might bond
Example: H2O Uses for Electron Dot Diagrams O H H H H O
Importance of Valence Electrons :
Valence electrons determine how an atom will react with other atoms to form bonds
Bonds are formed when atoms transfer valence electrons or when they share valence electrons
As the number of valence electrons changes , the properties of elements also changes Importance of Valence Electrons