Core electrons are the electrons in an atom that are not involved in chemical bonding. They reside in the inner shells of an atom, closer to the nucleus.
5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test
Core electrons do not participate in chemical reactions; valence electrons do.
The number of core electrons can be determined by subtracting the number of valence electrons from the total number of electrons in an atom.
Core electrons effectively shield outer (valence) electrons from the full attraction of the nucleus, a concept known as shielding or screening effect.
In electron configurations, core electrons are represented by filled inner orbitals, often abbreviated using noble gas notation.
The energy levels of core electrons are much lower (more negative) than those of valence electrons.