What does the octet rule state?

The octet rule is a fundamental concept in chemistry that describes the tendency of atoms to achieve a stable electron configuration similar to that of noble gases. Specifically, it states that atoms tend to gain, lose, or share electrons in order to obtain a full outer shell, typically consisting of eight electrons. This configuration provides stability, as atoms strive to minimize their energy state.

Atoms interact in various ways to fulfill this requirement: for example, they may gain electrons to form anions, lose electrons to form cations, or share electrons through covalent bonding. The pursuit of a complete outer shell leads to the formation of chemical bonds, which plays a crucial role in the creation of compounds.

Understanding the octet rule is essential as it helps explain the reactivity of elements and the types of bonds they can form, guiding predictions about how substances will react during chemical processes.