Question

question 8 of 10
why do noble gases rarely form bonds with other atoms?

a. the noble gases form bonds only with themselves because they
have octets.

b. the noble gases are not reactive, so they dont need full valence
octets.

c. the noble gases are already stable, with full octets of valence
electrons.

d. gases do not form bonds with atoms that are not also gases.

Explanation:

• Option A: Noble gases are monatomic (exist as single atoms), so they don't form bonds with themselves. Eliminate A.
• Option B: Noble gases are stable because they have full valence octets, and reactivity is related to achieving a full octet. Saying they don't need full octets is wrong. Eliminate B.
• Option C: Noble gases have full valence electron octets (except He with 2 valence electrons, a duet, which is also a stable configuration), making them stable and unlikely to form bonds. This is correct.
• Option D: Bond formation is not determined by the physical state (gas or not) of the atoms. For example, hydrogen gas (H₂) can react with oxygen gas (O₂) or solid carbon. Eliminate D.

Answer:

C. The noble gases are already stable, with full octets of valence electrons.