Argon Valence Electrons
Why argon has 8
Argon has 18 electrons, arranged as 1s2 2s2 2p6 3s2 3p6. The highest shell is n = 3, holding 3s2 3p6, so 2 + 6 = 8.
Argon is in group 18; for groups 13–18 subtract 10 from the group number.
What that means for bonding
With a full outer shell, argon has no drive to gain, lose or share electrons, which is why it is so unreactive.
Electrons per shell: 2, 8, 8. See the argon electron configuration and orbital diagram or the full argon data sheet.
Same group, same count
Argon valence electrons FAQ
How many valence electrons does argon have?
Argon has 8 valence electrons. Its electron configuration is 1s² 2s² 2p⁶ 3s² 3p⁶, and the outermost shell (n = 3) holds 3s² + 3p⁶.
How do you find the valence electrons of argon?
Argon is in group 18; for groups 13–18 subtract 10 from the group number.
How many bonds does argon form?
With a full outer shell, argon has no drive to gain, lose or share electrons, which is why it is so unreactive.
What is the Lewis dot structure of argon?
The symbol Ar with 8 dots around it, one per valence electron, placed singly on each side before any side is paired.
How many core electrons does argon have?
10: 18 electrons in total minus the 8 valence electrons.