Valence numbers are generally within which range?

• A. -1 to +1
• B. -2 to +2
• C. -4 to +4
• D. -6 to +6

Answer: (C)

Valence numbers show how many electrons an atom tends to gain, lose, or share in bonding—essentially how many bonds it commonly forms. In everyday bonding scenarios, main-group elements can reach about four bonds (carbon is the archetype, tetravalent), so valence states commonly fall within a practical range from -4 to +4. The negative side reflects gaining electrons (negative oxidation states), while the positive side reflects losing electrons (positive oxidation states). There are exceptions with heavier elements and transition metals that can exhibit higher oxidation states, but for standard contexts this -4 to +4 spread covers the typical cases you’ll encounter. The other ranges are either too narrow to include common valences or too broad for everyday chemistry where extreme states are rare.