Octet Rule
What is Octet Rule?
The octet rule states that atoms of main-group elements tend to gain, lose, or share electrons to achieve a configuration with eight electrons in their valence shell, analogous to the noble gas configuration. The rule successfully predicts the bonding in many common molecules such as CO₂, CCl₄, and NH₃. Exceptions include electron-deficient species (BF₃), expanded octets (PCl₅, SF₆), and molecules with an odd number of electrons (NO, ClO₂).
Key Facts
Frequently Asked Questions
The octet rule states that atoms of main-group elements tend to gain, lose, or share electrons to achieve a configuration with eight electrons in their valence shell, analogous to the noble gas configuration. The rule successfully predicts the bonding in many common molecules such as CO₂, CCl₄, and NH₃. Exceptions include electron-deficient species (BF₃), expanded octets (PCl₅, SF₆), and molecules with an odd number of electrons (NO, ClO₂).