Solution
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To determine the number of valence electrons that selenium (Se) possesses, we need to understand the structure of the periodic table and the electron configuration of atoms.
Step 1: Locate Selenium on the Periodic Table
The periodic table is divided into groups (columns) and periods (rows). Selenium (Se) is located in the 16th group (also known as the chalcogens) and the 4th period of the periodic table.
Step 1: Locate Selenium on the Periodic Table
The periodic table is divided into groups (columns) and periods (rows). Selenium (Se) is located in the 16th group (also known as the chalcogens) and the 4th period of the periodic table.
The periodic table is divided into groups (columns) and periods (rows). Selenium (Se) is located in the 16th group (also known as the chalcogens) and the 4th period of the periodic table.
Step 2: Understand the Group Number
The group number of an element can help us determine the number of valence electrons. For elements in groups 1-2 and 13-18, the group number corresponds to the number of valence electrons. However, for elements in groups 3-12 (the transition metals), this rule does not apply.
Step 3: Apply the Group Number Rule to Selenium
Since selenium is in group 16, it has six valence electrons. This is because the group number for elements in this section of the periodic table is equal to the number of valence electrons.
Step 4: Confirm with Electron Configuration
We can also confirm this by looking at selenium's electron configuration. The electron configuration of selenium is [Ar] 3d10 4s2 4p4. The outermost energy level is the 4th energy level, and it contains six electrons (4s2 and 4p4), which are the valence electrons.
In conclusion, selenium (Se) has six valence electrons. This knowledge is crucial in understanding the chemical reactivity and bonding behavior of selenium.
Step 2: Understand the Group Number
The group number of an element can help us determine the number of valence electrons. For elements in groups 1-2 and 13-18, the group number corresponds to the number of valence electrons. However, for elements in groups 3-12 (the transition metals), this rule does not apply.
Step 3: Apply the Group Number Rule to Selenium
Since selenium is in group 16, it has six valence electrons. This is because the group number for elements in this section of the periodic table is equal to the number of valence electrons.
Step 4: Confirm with Electron Configuration
We can also confirm this by looking at selenium's electron configuration. The electron configuration of selenium is [Ar] 3d10 4s2 4p4. The outermost energy level is the 4th energy level, and it contains six electrons (4s2 and 4p4), which are the valence electrons.
In conclusion, selenium (Se) has six valence electrons. This knowledge is crucial in understanding the chemical reactivity and bonding behavior of selenium.
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