Every atom must have an octet of electrons in order for a Lewis structure to be considered valid.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Many atoms, especially those in periods 1 and 2 of the periodic table, strive for an octet of electrons in their valence shell, but there are exceptions. Hydrogen is stable with 2 electrons, and elements in periods 3 and beyond can have more than 8 electrons due to d-orbital participation (expanded octet).

Every Atom Must Have an Octet of Electrons in Order