valence electron

noun

: a single electron or one of two or more electrons in the outer shell of an atom that is responsible for the chemical properties of the atom

Examples of valence electron in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
These examples are automatically compiled from online sources to illustrate current usage. Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
The scientists at Tokyo Tech want to do something similar with valence electrons, which reside on the outer shell of an atom and are responsible for each atom's chemical properties. David Grossman, Popular Mechanics, 10 Sep. 2019

Word History

First Known Use

1922, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of valence electron was in 1922

Dictionary Entries Near valence electron

Cite this Entry

“Valence electron.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/valence%20electron. Accessed 13 Nov. 2024.

Medical Definition

valence electron

noun
: a single electron or one of two or more electrons in the outer shell of an atom that is responsible for the chemical properties of the atom

More from Merriam-Webster on valence electron

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!