In a Lewis structure, which of the following atoms can have more than eight electrons associated with it?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Phosphorus can have more than eight electrons associated with it because it can expand its valence shell to accommodate up to 10 or 12 electrons by utilizing its empty d orbitals. This is known as the expanded octet rule. However, carbon and fluorine cannot exceed the octet rule because they do not have empty d orbitals.

In a Lewis Structure, Which of the Following Atoms Can