How many valence electrons are in a neutral atom of rubidium (Rb) ? 0 X 5 ?
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
A neutral atom of rubidium (Rb) has one valence electron.
Rubidium is an alkali metal that belongs to Group 1 of the periodic table. The elements in this group all have a single valence electron in their outermost electron shell. Valence electrons are crucial because they determine how an atom interacts chemically with other elements.
Rubidium has an atomic number of 37, meaning it possesses 37 protons in its nucleus and, in a neutral state, an equal number of electrons. Its electron configuration is 1s² 2s² 2p⁶ 3s² 3p⁶ 4s² 3d¹⁰ 4p⁶ 5s¹. The highest principal energy level, which is the fifth shell, contains only one electron. This outermost electron makes rubidium highly reactive.
Alkali metals, including rubidium, tend to lose their lone valence electron readily in chemical reactions. When rubidium gives up this electron, it forms a positively charged ion (Rb⁺), achieving a stable electron configuration similar to that of krypton, its nearest noble gas. This process of losing an electron makes rubidium highly reactive, especially with elements that readily accept electrons, such as halogens.
Due to this reactive nature, rubidium is rarely found in its elemental form in nature. Instead, it typically exists as part of ionic compounds. Its single valence electron means rubidium forms predominantly ionic bonds with nonmetals. This reactivity is useful in applications such as atomic clocks and specialized glass formulations.
In summary, a neutral rubidium atom has only one valence electron. This electron determines its chemical properties, making rubidium highly reactive and prone to forming ionic bonds.
