The element Argon (Ar) has a total of 8 valence electrons. These electrons are located in the outermost shell of the atom, specifically in the third energy level.
To explain further, Argon is a noble gas and belongs to Group 18 of the periodic table. Noble gases are known for having complete outer electron shells, which makes them very stable and largely nonreactive. In Argon’s case, its electron configuration is 1s² 2s² 2p⁶ 3s² 3p⁶. The outer shell, which corresponds to the third energy level, contains the two electrons from the 3s sublevel (3s²) and the six electrons from the 3p sublevel (3p⁶).
Therefore, the valence electrons for Argon are precisely the eight electrons in the third shell that contribute to its chemical properties and stability.