Valence electrons are located in which orbit or shell of atoms?

Valence electrons are specifically located in the outermost orbit or shell of an atom. These electrons are crucial because they are involved in chemical bonding and reactions. The outermost shell determines how an atom interacts with others, as it can either gain, lose, or share electrons during chemical reactions. This reactivity is a key property that underlies the formation of molecules and compounds.

The innermost shell typically contains the core electrons, which are not involved in bonding. The middle shell is generally not where valence electrons reside either, as it usually consists of electrons that are further from the nucleus but still not on the outermost layer. Core typically refers to the innermost electrons that provide shielding but do not participate in bonding or chemical activity. Therefore, understanding that valence electrons are in the outermost shell helps clarify their role in chemical interactions and the overall behavior of elements in the periodic table.