How does electron configuration influence reactivity?

Can you explain how electron configuration affects the reactivity of elements?

Sure! Electron configuration determines how easily an atom can gain, lose, or share electrons, which directly influences its reactivity.

What about noble gases? They have full electron shells, right?

Exactly! Noble gases have complete outer electron shells, making them very stable and largely unreactive compared to other elements.

So, do elements with fewer valence electrons tend to be more reactive?

Yes, elements with fewer valence electrons, like alkali metals, are more reactive because they can easily lose those electrons to achieve stability.

Can you give an example of a highly reactive element?

Sodium is a great example. It has one valence electron, which it readily loses to form a positive ion, making it very reactive.