The octet rule states that atoms tend to gain, lose, or share electrons to achieve a stable electron configuration from "summary" of The Periodic Table: A Very Short Introduction by Eric R. Scerri
The octet rule is a fundamental concept in chemistry that helps us understand how atoms interact with each other. Atoms are constantly seeking to achieve a stable electron configuration, which typically involves having eight electrons in their outermost energy level. This desire for stability is what drives atoms to gain, lose, or share electrons with other atoms.
When atoms have fewer than eight electrons in their outermost energy level, they tend to react by gaining electrons from other atoms. This process allows them to fill up their outer shell and achieve a more stable configuration. Conversely, atoms that have more than eight electrons in their outermost energy level may lose electrons to achieve the desired octet configuration.
In some cases, atoms will share electrons with other atoms in order to achieve a stable electron configuration. This sharing of electrons allows both atoms to fill up their outer shells and attain a more stable state. Covalent bonds, which are formed through the sharing of electrons, are a common example of this type of interaction.
The octet rule helps us predict how atoms will behave in chemical reactions. By understanding that atoms are driven by a desire for stability, we can predict whether they will gain, lose, or share electrons to achieve a full outer shell. This knowledge is essential for understanding the behavior of elements and compounds in the world around us.
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