How many electrons are in the outer shell of carbon?
Answer: Carbon has 4 electrons in its outer shell.
Explanation: Carbon (C), with an atomic number of 6, has an electron configuration of 1s2 2s2 2p2.
In this configuration, the outermost energy level (shell) is the second energy level (L shell), which contains the 2s and 2p subshell.
The combined total of electrons in the 2s2 and 2p2 subshells is 4 electrons, which are the valence electrons located in the outer shell.
Read: Electron Configuration for Carbon (C, C4−): Full Guide
Significance: The presence of 4 electrons in the outer shell of carbon influences its chemical reactivity and its ability to form bonds with other atoms, particularly in the context of organic chemistry where carbon’s valence electrons play a crucial role.