Question

according to the octet rule, most atoms in covalent compounds strive to have how many electrons in their valence shell? 6 10 2 8 which of the following molecules is an exception to the octet rule because the central atom has fewer than eight valence electrons? ccl₄ bf₃ nh₃

Explanation:

The octet rule states that atoms tend to have 8 electrons in their valence shell for stability. For the second - question, in $CCl_4$, carbon has 8 valence electrons, in $NH_3$ nitrogen has 8 valence electrons, but in $BF_3$, boron has 6 valence electrons and is an exception as its central atom has fewer than 8 valence electrons.

Answer:

1. D. 8
2. B. $BF_3$