Understanding Energy Shells of Atoms

​​In an atom, the negatively charged electrons are found outside the nucleus in different shells or energy levels. The way electrons are placed in their electron shells is called electron configuration or simply electron arrangement. Number of electrons in the outer shell of an atom is called valence electrons. These are the electrons that are either transferred or shared with other atoms during chemical reactions.

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Multiple Choice

Valence electrons are located...

• inside the nucleus

• in outer space

• on the outermost orbit of an atom

Multiple Choice

True or False: An atom is only "happy" when the inner shell is full.

• True

• False

Open Ended

Explain why you think Oxygen or Fluorine are NOT considered to be "happy" atoms?

Multiple Choice

How many electrons does the first shell hold?

• 1

• 2

• 4

• 8

Multiple Choice

Which element has an electron configuration of 2.8.8?

• Lead
• Flourine
• Neon
• Argon

Multiple Choice

How many electrons can be in the 2nd energy level hold?

• 1

• 2

• 4

• 8

Open Ended

What do the pink and blue circles around the nucleus represent?

Open Ended

What do the numbered dots on the rings represent?

Open Ended

Is this atom "happy"? How do you know?

Open Ended

What would make this atom "happy"?