Question

the dots for an elements lewis symbol signify the number of ____ present in the neutral atom.
valence electrons
protons
core electrons
neutrons
question 2 1 pts
lewis symbols can be used to indicate the formation of cations and anions by tracking the loss or gain of ____ from atoms.
photons
neutrons
protons
electrons

Explanation:

1. In a Lewis symbol, the dots represent the number of valence electrons in a neutral atom. Valence electrons are the electrons in the outermost shell that participate in chemical bonding. Protons are in the nucleus and not represented by dots, core - electrons are not shown, and neutrons are also in the nucleus and not depicted.
2. Cations are formed by the loss of electrons and anions by the gain of electrons. Lewis symbols track this electron - transfer process. Photons are related to electromagnetic radiation, neutrons are in the nucleus and not involved in ion - formation in this context, and protons are not lost or gained during normal ion - formation processes (only electrons are).

Answer:

1. valence electrons
2. electrons