Fundamental Chemistry Flashcards
What are valence electrons?
Valence electrons are the electrons in the outermost shells.
What does valence electrons have?
These electrons have the highest energy level.
What does an elements chemical properties depend on?
Depend on the interactions between valence electrons of different atoms.
What is the octet rule?
Atoms tend to establish a full outer shell.
What are atoms with fully-filled shells described as?
- Less reactive than atoms with
partially-filled shells. - Stable or inert
How is the periodic table arranged?
The Periodic Table arranges all elements according to their valence electron number.
What are molecules?
Molecules are groups of the same atom held together in a stable association (O2, N2) and more than one type of element
What are compounds?
Compounds are molecules containing more than one type of element
How are atoms held together?
Atoms are held together in molecules or compounds by chemical bonds (Covalent and Ionic bonds).
What is oxidation?
Reaction of losing electrons
What is reduction?
Reaction of gaining electrons
How are ionic bonds formed?
Ionic bonds are formed by the attraction of oppositely charged ions (i.e. between cations and anions).
How are covalent bonds formed?
Covalent bonds form when atoms share 2 or more valence electrons
How does covalent bond strength increase?
Covalent bond strength increases with the number of electron pairs shared by the atoms.
What is electronegativity?
Electronegativity is an atom’s affinity for electrons.
