For an atom to achieve maximum stability and become chemically inert, what must occur?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

For an atom to achieve maximum stability and become chemically inert, its outermost energy shell (also known as the valence shell) must be completely filled with electrons. This configuration minimizes the energy of the atom and makes it less likely to react with other atoms, thus making it chemically inert. This principle underlies the noble gas configuration, where elements like helium, neon, and argon are naturally inert due to their full outer electron shells.

For an Atom to Achieve Maximum Stability and Become Chemically