Question

how many valence electrons does a neutral atom of oxygen have?
a. 6
b. 8
c. 4
d. 2

Explanation:

Oxygen has an atomic number of 8, so a neutral atom has 8 electrons. Its electron configuration is $1s^2 2s^2 2p^4$. Valence electrons are in the outermost shell (n=2 here), totaling $2+4=6$. Thus, the correct answer is 6.

Answer:

A. 6