Question

What is meant by the valency of an element?

Answer 1

1. The valency of an element is the number of electrons of an atom of the element used to combine with atoms of other elements.
2. It is the combined power of an atom of the element.
3. The valency of an atom is determined by its electronic configuration.
4. It gives an idea about the number of electrons lost or gained in order to achieve the nearest noble gas configuration.
5. For example:
   1. Na (11) = 2, 8, 1 So, its valency is 1.
   2. Cl (17) = 2, 8, 7 So, its valency is also 1.