Question

How many electrons will a non-metal generally have in its outer shell? 1 - 3 1 - 4 4 - 7 8

Answer 1

They generally have 4 - 7 electrons in their outer shell.

Answer 2

Answer: The correct answer is 4-7.

Explanation:

A non-metal is defined as the element which gains electron to attain stable electronic configuration and to attain a negative ion which is anion.

$X+ne^-\rightarrow X^{n-}$

Non-metals are the elements which belong to Group 14 to Group 17.

The valence electronic configuration of the elements:

• Belonging to Group 14 = $ns^2np^2$

Number of valence electrons = 4

• Belonging to Group 16= $ns^2np^3$

Number of valence electrons = 5

• Belonging to Group 16 = $ns^2np^4$

Number of valence electrons = 6

• Belonging to Group 17 = $ns^2np^5$

Number of valence electrons = 7

Hence, the correct answer is 4-7.