Question

How to calculate the valency of zinc

Answer 1

Zinc is the 30the element in the periodic table.

By using 2n^2, we can figure out no. if atoms in each shell

K shell: 2*(1)^2 = 2

L shell: 2*(2)^2 = 8

M shell: 2*(3)^2 = 18

Total electrons in the first three shells = 2+8+18 = 28

Now, every element wants to achieve octet.

Zinc has 30 electrons I.e. 28 in first three shells and 2 in the fourth.

To achieve octet, it must either lose two electrons or gain six. Since it is easier to lose two electrons, Zinc loses these two electrons in the outermost shell and forms a 2+ action.

Hence, valency of Zinc is two (2).

Answer 2

The last orbital electrons gives the valency of an atom.
The valency of Zinc is 2 as its last orbital has 2 electrons