Helium Valence Electrons
Why helium has 2
Helium has 2 electrons, arranged as 1s2. The highest shell is n = 1, holding 1s2, so 2.
Helium is in group 18; for groups 13–18 subtract 10 from the group number (helium is the exception: its only shell is full with 2).
What that means for bonding
With a full outer shell, helium has no drive to gain, lose or share electrons, which is why it is so unreactive.
Electrons per shell: 2. See the helium electron configuration and orbital diagram or the full helium data sheet.
Same group, same count
Helium valence electrons FAQ
How many valence electrons does helium have?
Helium has 2 valence electrons. Its electron configuration is 1s², and the outermost shell (n = 1) holds 1s².
How do you find the valence electrons of helium?
Helium is in group 18; for groups 13–18 subtract 10 from the group number (helium is the exception: its only shell is full with 2).
How many bonds does helium form?
With a full outer shell, helium has no drive to gain, lose or share electrons, which is why it is so unreactive.
How many core electrons does helium have?
0: 2 electrons in total minus the 2 valence electrons.