Question

which element has four valence electrons? (1 point) silicon (si) sulfur (s) potassium (k) beryllium (be)

Explanation:

Step1: Analyze the valence electrons of silicon (Si)

Silicon is in group 14 of the periodic table. Elements in group 14 have 4 valence electrons. The electron configuration of silicon is \(1s^{2}2s^{2}2p^{6}3s^{2}3p^{2}\), and the number of valence electrons (electrons in the outermost shell, here the 3rd shell) is \(2 + 2=4\).

Step2: Analyze the valence electrons of sulfur (S)

Sulfur is in group 16. Its electron configuration is \(1s^{2}2s^{2}2p^{6}3s^{2}3p^{4}\). The number of valence electrons (in the 3rd shell) is \(2 + 4 = 6\).

Step3: Analyze the valence electrons of potassium (K)

Potassium is in group 1. Its electron configuration is \(1s^{2}2s^{2}2p^{6}3s^{2}3p^{6}4s^{1}\). The number of valence electrons (in the 4th shell) is \(1\).

Step4: Analyze the valence electrons of beryllium (Be)

Beryllium is in group 2. Its electron configuration is \(1s^{2}2s^{2}\). The number of valence electrons (in the 2nd shell) is \(2\).

Answer:

silicon (Si)