-
- To save this word, you'll need to log in.
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
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
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.
Word History
First Known Use
1922, in the meaning defined above
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 8 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
Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about valence electron
Love words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share