Determine the number of valence electrons in each of the neutral atoms. carbon: nitrogen: oxygen: chlorine: sulfur:

C = 4 valence electrons

N = 5 valence electrons

O = 6 valence electrons

Cl = 7 valence electrons

S = 6 valence electrons

Explanation: Refer to each electron configuration:

C - 1s², 2s²,2p² valence e- add the exponents on the highest energy level which is period 2. So 2+2=4

N - 1s²,2s²,2p³ add the exponent in the 2nd orbital: 2+3 =5 valence electrons

O - 1s²,2s²,2p⁴ add the exponents in the 2nd orbital: 2 +4 = 6 valence electrons

Cl- 1s²,2s²,2p5 add the exponents in the 2nd orbital: 2 +5 = 7 valence electrons.

S- 1s²,2s²,2p⁴ add the exponents in the 2nd orbital: 2 + 4= 6 valence electrons.