Question

when the highest occupied energy level of an atom is filled with electrons, the atom

• 1 point

○ will explode.
○ is unstable and highly reactive.
○ is stable and not likely to react.
○ changes to a different element.

Explanation:

In chemistry (a subfield of Natural Science), atoms with a filled highest occupied energy level (like noble gases) are stable and have low reactivity because their electron configuration is complete, so they don't tend to gain, lose, or share electrons easily. The option "will explode" is incorrect as a filled energy level doesn't cause explosions. "Is unstable and highly reactive" is wrong because a filled level gives stability. "Changes to a different element" is incorrect as electron filling doesn't change the element (that involves nuclear changes). So the correct choice is the one stating the atom is stable and not likely to react.

Answer:

C. is stable and not likely to react (assuming the third option is labeled C; if the options are unlabeled by letter, then "the option 'is stable and not likely to react'")