Campbell Biology (11th Edition)

Published by Pearson
ISBN 10: 0-13409-341-0
ISBN 13: 978-0-13409-341-3

Chapter 4 - Test Your Understanding - Level 3 - Synthesis/Evaluation - Page 65: 9

Answer

Please see image. Silicon has the same number of unpaired outer shell electrons as carbon (4), and could, thus, for the same number and kinds of bonds, at least in theory. In contrast, neon has no unpaired electrons to form bonds, and aluminum has only one.

Work Step by Step

The key here is to see that the chemistry of an element is determined by unpaired outer shell electrons forming bonds, and to look up that number for each of the elements to be discussed.
Update this answer!

You can help us out by revising, improving and updating this answer.

Update this answer

After you claim an answer you’ll have 24 hours to send in a draft. An editor will review the submission and either publish your submission or provide feedback.