Periodic Trends

Question 20 • TX-Integrated Physics and Chemistry A

Which statement best explains why radon and krypton do not bond easily with other elements?

Answer

They have many electron shells, so their protons do not attract electrons strongly.

They have eight electrons in their valence shells, so they are stable without gaining or losing electrons.

Their valence shells are empty, so they do not need to bond with other elements to be more stable.

Their valence shells are so close to the protons in the nucleus that bonding cannot happen like in other elements.

Explanation

Radon and krypton are noble gases. Each has a full outer electron shell—eight valence electrons—so it is already stable and has little tendency to gain, lose, or share electrons. Therefore, choice B best explains why they do not bond easily with other elements.

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