Halogens have been placed in the VII group of the peri- odic table because they are/have

Options

A. non-metals
B. very reactive
C. electronegative
D. seven electrons in outermost orbit

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding the Group Placement**: Halogens are placed in Group VII (or 7A) of the periodic table. This placement is based on their electronic configuration, particularly the number of electrons in their outermost shell.

2. **Identifying the Characteristics of Halogens**: Halogens are non-metals and are known for their high reactivity. They are highly electronegative, meaning they have a strong tendency to attract electrons.

3. **Counting the Outer Electrons**: The defining feature of halogens is that they have 7 electrons in their outermost shell (valence shell). For example:
- Fluorine (F) has the electronic configuration of 1s² 2s² 2p⁵, totaling 7 electrons in the second shell.
- Chlorine (Cl) has the electronic configuration of 1s² 2s² 2p⁶ 3s² 3p⁵, also totaling 7 electrons in the third shell.

4. **Conclusion on Group Placement**: Since all halogens have 7 electrons in their outermost orbit, they are classified under Group VII. This characteristic is the primary reason for their placement in this group.

5. **Summarizing the Answer**: Halogens are placed in Group VII of the periodic table because they have 7 electrons in their outermost orbit, which defines their chemical properties and reactivity.

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