which of the following elements is most likely to be the least reactive? A. a group of 2 element
B. a group of 17 element
C an element with 1 valence electron
D an element with 8 valence electrons
The noble gases are almost entirely unreactive, right?
The element that is most likely to be the least reactive is an element with 8 valence electrons. Therefore, the correct option is D.
To determine which element is most likely to be the least reactive, we need to understand the periodic table and the reactivity trends of elements.
Option A: A group of 2 elements refers to the noble gases in Group 18 (also known as Group 8A). These elements have a completely filled outer electron shell, which makes them stable and unreactive. Therefore, they are the least reactive elements.
Option B: Group 17 elements, also called halogens, have 7 valence electrons. They are highly reactive as they only need to gain one electron to achieve a stable electron configuration.
Option C: An element with 1 valence electron is found in Group 1, also known as the alkali metals. These elements are highly reactive as they have a strong tendency to lose their single valence electron to achieve a stable configuration.
Option D: An element with 8 valence electrons refers to the elements found in Group 18, known as the noble gases. Similar to Option A, these elements have a full outer electron shell, making them stable and unreactive.
Given the options, the correct answer would be A. A group of 2 element/noble gases, as they are the least reactive elements due to having a completely filled outer electron shell.