The chemical behavior of an atom is determined by the
A) number of protons.
B) number of neutrons.
C) outermost electron shell.
D) size of the atom.
E) mass of the nucleus.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The outermost electron shell, also known as the valence shell, is responsible for determining the chemical behavior of an atom as it is the shell that participates in chemical reactions and interactions with other atoms. The number of protons and neutrons can affect the properties of the atom, such as its atomic weight and stability, but it is the electrons in the outermost shell that primarily dictate its chemical behavior. The size of the atom and mass of the nucleus can also be important factors but do not directly determine chemical behavior.

The Chemical Behavior of an Atom Is Determined by the