Question

why is oxygen diatomic?

Answer 1

Oxygen generally exists as a diatomic molecule in the atmosphere when it is not combined with any other element. It forms the molecule O2 because in that configuration, it has its lowest energy level when uncombined. All substances tend to go to the lowest energy level possible. Oxygen has 6 valence electrons

Answer 2

Answer:

Every thing in this world wants to become stable.

All elements wants to achieve nobel gas configuration.

Oxygen

Symbol = O

Molecular Formula = O2

Atomic no = 8

Mass = 16u

Total electrons = 8

Electronic Configuration = K = 2,L = 6

So, its valency is 2

So, oxygen wants only 2 electrons to achieve inert gas configuration.

Bond Formed = Covalent Bond(Sharing of electrons)

Terms used for atoms shared :-

For :-

1 electron = Monoatomic

2 electron = Diatomic

3 electron = Triatomic and etc.