answersLogoWhite

0

Valency is the number of hydrogen atoms that can combine with [or displace] one atom of the element [or radical] to form a compound. For example, one atom of hydrogen combines with one atom of chlorine to form hydrogen chloride [HCl]; so, the valency of chlorine [chloride] is one. Similarly, the valency of the nitrate radical [NO3] in the compound nitric acid [HNO3] is 1, and the valency of the sulfate radical in the compound sulfuric acid [H2SO4] is 2.

For elements that do not combine with hydrogen, the valency is the combining power of the element with another element whose valency is known. Valency may also be defined as the number of electrons that an atom donates or accepts to form the duplet state (i.e., 2 electrons in outermost shell) or octet state (i.e., 8 electrons in outermost shell).

The valency of an element [or radical] is always a whole number. Elements [or radicals] with valency one are monovalent, those with valency two are divalent, and those with valency three are trivalent

User Avatar

Wiki User

12y ago

Still curious? Ask our experts.

Chat with our AI personalities

DevinDevin
I've poured enough drinks to know that people don't always want advice—they just want to talk.
Chat with Devin
RossRoss
Every question is just a happy little opportunity.
Chat with Ross
RafaRafa
There's no fun in playing it safe. Why not try something a little unhinged?
Chat with Rafa

Add your answer:

Earn +20 pts
Q: Radical - positive and negative radical in chemistry?
Write your answer...
Submit
Still have questions?
magnify glass
imp