Amongst element X (2,8,6) and Y (2,8,8) which is more reactive and why?

Options

A. X because it is a metal
B. Y because it is non metal
C. X because it has 6 valence electrons
D. same electrical charge on the nucleus

Answer

To determine which element, X (2,8,6) or Y (2,8,8), is more reactive, we need to analyze their electronic configurations and the implications for their reactivity.

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Identify the Elements**:
- Element X has the electronic configuration of (2,8,6). This means it has 6 electrons in its outermost shell.
- Element Y has the electronic configuration of (2,8,8). This means it has 8 electrons in its outermost shell.

2. **Determine Atomic Numbers**:
- For Element X (2,8,6), the total number of electrons is 2 + 8 + 6 = 16. Therefore, the atomic number is 16, which corresponds to Sulfur (S).
- For Element Y (2,8,8), the total number of electrons is 2 + 8 + 8 = 18. Therefore, the atomic number is 18, which corresponds to Argon (Ar).

3. **Analyze Valence Electrons**:
- Element X (Sulfur) has 6 valence electrons. To achieve a stable octet configuration, it needs 2 more electrons.
- Element Y (Argon) has 8 valence electrons, which means its outer shell is complete. Noble gases like Argon are known for their lack of reactivity due to having a full outer shell.

4. **Determine Reactivity**:
- Reactivity is often associated with how easily an element can gain, lose, or share electrons to achieve a stable electronic configuration.
- Since Sulfur (X) needs 2 more electrons to complete its octet, it is likely to react with other elements to gain those electrons, making it more reactive.
- Argon (Y), with a complete outer shell, is stable and does not need to gain or lose electrons, making it non-reactive.

5. **Conclusion**:
- Therefore, Element X (Sulfur) is more reactive than Element Y (Argon) because it has 6 valence electrons and seeks to gain 2 more electrons to achieve stability.

### Final Answer:
Element X (Sulfur) is more reactive than Element Y (Argon) because it has 6 valence electrons and needs 2 more to complete its octet, while Argon has a complete outer shell and is stable.