What happens to the electrons that aren't valence electrons in an atom?

Author Question: What happens to the electrons that aren't valence electrons in an atom? (Read 796 times)

CharlieWard

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Posts: 578

on: Sep 20, 2013

I never understood why we account for 7 valence electrons in Cl but don't use any of the other 8 electrons. I know that it's because it's on the outer shell but can someone explain or lead me to a source that explains why electrons of previous rows don't do anything?

Jkov05

Hero Member
Posts: 556

Reply #1 on: Sep 20, 2013

Because only the valence electrons bond. That's just the way it is! Hope this helps, and good luck in your endeavors!

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