Explain how to use the valence electrons in an atom to predict if the atom will form bonds.

Elements in the Groups 1-4 (1-4 valence electrons) will form the same 1-4 bonds based on the number of valence electrons

Elements with one Valence will form one bond, 2 valence 2 bonds

Elements with more than five valence will form enough bonds to give the atom an octet.

Elements with 5 valence form 3 bonds; 6 valence 2 bonds etc...