Why are the noble gases generally unreactive?
Answer and explanation
Correct answer: D. Their atoms have a full outer shell and no tendency to gain, lose or share electrons
- Step 1: Reactivity depends on how easily atoms gain, lose or share outer electrons.
- Step 2: A full outer shell is stable, so the noble gases rarely form bonds.
Answer
Their atoms have a full outer shell and no tendency to gain, lose or share electrons.
Why not the others: Their atoms have one outer electron that is held very tightly: noble gases have a full outer shell, not one electron. Their atoms have no electrons in the outer shell: the outer shell is full, not empty. Their nuclei contain no neutrons: neutrons have no role in chemical reactivity.
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