The octet rule is a simple chemical theory that states that atoms tend to combine in such a way that they each have eight electrons in their valence shells, similar to the electronic configuration of a noble gas. In simple terms, molecules are more stable when the outer shells of their constituent atoms are empty, full, or have a multiple of 8 electrons in the outer shell. See electron shells.
This combination occurs primarily in two ways, electrovalent bonding and covalent bonding.
Some of the atoms for which the octet rule are most useful are:
However, the exceptions are plenty:
See also
