A neutral atom of silicon has 4 valence electrons.
To understand why, we need to look at silicon’s position on the periodic table. Silicon is in group 14, which means it has four electrons in its outermost shell (or valence shell). The electrons in this outer shell are crucial because they determine how silicon can bond with other atoms to form compounds. The four valence electrons allow silicon to form covalent bonds, which are essential in many materials, including semiconductors and silicon-based technologies. In its neutral state, silicon will have an equal number of protons and electrons, ensuring that the atomic structure remains balanced.