Chemistry A-Level
Outer-shell electron counting
What Outer-shell electron counting means in Chemistry A-Level, as defined for OCR.
Definition of Outer-shell electron counting
Check what you remember
Read the wording for your board, then hide it and explain Outer-shell electron counting in your own words. Rough notes are fine. This is a self-check, with no mark or grade.
Reference: OCR
Counting the outer-shell electrons contributed by each atom before pairing any electrons, and checking the total against the number of electrons shown in the diagram.
Topics that use Outer-shell electron counting
- Bonding and structure (OCR A-Level)
Related terms
- Anomalous melting and boiling points
- Average bond enthalpy
- Averaging over similar compounds and its limitation
- Bond angles
- bond length and strength
- Bond polarity and lone pairs
- Bond polarity versus molecular polarity
- Comparison of solid, liquid and aqueous states
Using Outer-shell electron counting in the exam
Check the command word and mark scheme for your exact question. After comparing your explanation with the reference, use the term in an answer on the linked topic. This practice does not predict an exam mark.
Practise Chemistry questions
Create a free account to answer exam-style questions on this topic and get feedback on your answers.
Start free
All Chemistry A-Level termsA week of Premium from your first lesson · Then the free plan continues · No card, no charge