The octet rule is most likely to fail occasionally for which of the following elements?
A)C
B)Ca
C)Li
D)P

Name: The octet rule is most likely to fail occasionally for which of the following elements? A)C B)Ca C)Li D)P
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Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The octet rule may fail for elements beyond the second period (n=2) because they can have access to d-orbitals, allowing them to have expanded valence shells. Phosphorus is in the third period and can have up to 10 valence electrons, so it may sometimes exceed the octet.

The Octet Rule Is Most Likely to Fail Occasionally for Which