Which elements can expand their octet?
Understand the Problem
The question is asking which chemical elements can have more than eight electrons in their valence shell, a phenomenon known as expanding the octet. This typically occurs in elements found in the third period and beyond of the periodic table, where d orbitals become available to accommodate additional electrons.
Answer
Sulfur, phosphorus, silicon, and chlorine.
Elements from the third period and below, such as sulfur, phosphorus, silicon, and chlorine, can expand their octet.
Answer for screen readers
Elements from the third period and below, such as sulfur, phosphorus, silicon, and chlorine, can expand their octet.
More Information
Sulfur, phosphorus, silicon, and chlorine can form stable compounds by accommodating more electrons than the octet rule typically allows. These elements make use of available d-orbitals for bonding.
Tips
A common mistake is assuming only elements from the fourth period and beyond can expand their octet. Elements in the third period already have accessible d orbitals.
Sources
- What elements can have expanded octet? - Laurence Lavelle - lavelle.chem.ucla.edu
- Which elements can have an expanded octet? - Quora - quora.com
- Expansion of Octet Rule - Chemistry Guru - chemistryguru.com.sg
