What is the number of valence electrons in cadmium (Cd)?
A. 1
B. 2
C. 10
D. 12
Answer (1)
Cadmium (Cd) is in group 12 of the periodic table.
Elements in group 12 have 2 valence electrons.
Therefore, cadmium has 2 valence electrons.
Explanation
Problem Analysis The question asks for the number of valence electrons in cadmium (Cd). We need to determine how many valence electrons cadmium has and choose the correct answer from the provided options.
Identifying Valence Electrons Cadmium (Cd) is in group 12 of the periodic table. Elements in group 12 have two valence electrons. Valence electrons are the electrons in the outermost shell of an atom and are responsible for the chemical properties of the element.
Determining the Answer Therefore, cadmium (Cd) has 2 valence electrons.
Examples
Understanding valence electrons helps predict how elements will interact to form chemical bonds. For example, knowing that cadmium has 2 valence electrons allows us to predict that it can form bonds with elements that need two electrons to complete their valence shell, such as oxygen to form cadmium oxide (CdO). This concept is crucial in designing new materials and understanding chemical reactions.
