octet rule
Quick Summary
The octet rule in chemistry states that atoms tend to combine in such a way that they each have eight electrons in their outer electron shell. This arrangement is characteristic of the noble gases, which are known for their relative inertness. Elements near the noble gases achieve this stable configuration by losing, gaining, or sharing electrons. This principle, published by Walther Kossel and Gilbert Newton Lewis in 1916, helps determine the valence, or combining capacity, of many elements. The octet rule is particularly relevant to understanding covalent bonds, where atoms share electron pairs to achieve a stable, eight-electron outer shell.12
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chemical bondingContributions of Lewis…are expressed by his celebrated octet rule, which states that electron transfer or electron sharing proceeds until an atom has acquired an octet of electrons (i.e., the eight electrons characteristic of the valence shell of a noble gas atom). When complete transfer occurs, the bonding is ionic. When electrons are…
Read More…are expressed by his celebrated octet rule, which states that electron transfer or electron sharing proceeds until an atom has acquired an octet of electrons (i.e., the eight electrons characteristic of the valence shell of a noble gas atom). When complete transfer occurs, the bonding is ionic. When electrons are…
Read More- chemical bondingLewis formulation of a covalent bond
Lewis’s octet rule is again applicable and is seen to represent the extreme means of achieving lower energy rather than being a goal in itself.
Read MoreLewis’s octet rule is again applicable and is seen to represent the extreme means of achieving lower energy rather than being a goal in itself.
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