The chemical bonding behavior of an atom is directly determined by
A) the number of protons.
B) the number of neutrons.
C) the number and arrangement of electrons.
D) the size of the atom.
E) the mass of the atom.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Chemical bonding behavior is determined by the number and arrangement of electrons in an atom. The electrons determine how the atom will interact with other atoms and form chemical bonds. The number of protons and neutrons determine the identity and mass of the atom, respectively, but do not directly affect its chemical behavior.

The Chemical Bonding Behavior of an Atom Is Directly Determined