The helium atom has one more electron than hydrogen. The chemical properties differ because helium
A) and hydrogen are equally reactive since chemical bonding has nothing to do with the number of electrons.
B) is more reactive, since it has two electrons that can form chemical bonds.
C) is much less reactive, since its two electrons form a stable closed shell.
D) has neutrons in the nucleus.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The two electrons in the helium atom occupy the first energy level, completely filling it and forming a stable closed shell. This means that it is less reactive than hydrogen, which has only one electron in its outermost energy level and is therefore more likely to form chemical bonds with other elements.

The Helium Atom Has One More Electron Than Hydrogen