Question

Distinguish between core electrons and valence electrons. Which are primarily involved in chemical reactions?

Answer 1

Electrons in an atom are mainly classified into two types.

1. Core electrons

2. Valence electrons

Core electrons are the electrons which are placed in the lowest energy levels. Valence electrons are the electrons which are placed in the highest energy levels.

i.e,

Core electrons are inner most electrons and valence electrons are outer most electrons.

Generally valence electrons are participates in a chemical reaction where as core electrons doesn't.

But as the number of core electrons increases then reactivity generally increases due to less forces acting on valence electrons.