Cecil writes the equation for the reaction of hydrogen and oxygen below.
h2 + o2 → h2o
why does his teacher ask him to balance the equation by including the correct coefficients?

answer:

the answer is 6 valence electrons.

explanation:

valence is the # of electrons on the outer most shell of an atom.

oxygen has 6.

although, the valency of oxygen is 2, because it only needs to make 2 covalent bonds, or gain 2 electrons, to achieve the stable octet configuration of a noble gas.

that's it!

if you need further assistance, let me know: )

~ trueboss72

1. a)c-14 has two more protons

2. d)they have different numbers of protons, neutrons, and valence electrons; they are all gases at room temperature.

3. c) iron and nickel.