Question

valence electrons 1 quick check
two representative elements, nitrogen and oxygen, are in the same period of the periodic table. which statement correctly describes the atoms of the two elements? (1 point)
○ they have valence electrons in the same energy level.
○ they have the same number of electrons.
○ they have valence electrons in different energy levels.
○ they have the same number of valence electrons.

Explanation:

1. Recall the periodic table structure: Elements in the same period have electrons in the same number of principal energy levels (same shell for valence electrons' energy level).
2. Analyze each option:

• "They have valence electrons in the same energy level": Nitrogen (period 2) and oxygen (period 2) have valence electrons in the n = 2 energy level (L - shell), so this is correct.
• "They have the same number of electrons": Nitrogen has 7 electrons, oxygen has 8 electrons, so incorrect.
• "They have valence electrons in different energy levels": Same period means same energy level for valence electrons' shell, so incorrect.
• "They have the same number of valence electrons": Nitrogen has 5 valence electrons, oxygen has 6, so incorrect.

Answer:

A. They have valence electrons in the same energy level