Because they each contain one electron in their outermost shell, which can be lost to achieve a stable electron configuration.
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Atoms react with other atoms to achieve an octet in their outermost shell, influencing their chemical reactivity and bonding behavior.
In a molecule of hydrogen chloride (HCl), the hydrogen atom shares its electron with the chlorine atom, forming a covalent bond and achieving an octet in chlorine’s outermost shell.
The number of electrons gained, lost, or shared by an atom to achieve an octet in its outermost shell determines its combining capacity.
Atoms achieve an octet in their outermost shell by either sharing, gaining, or losing electrons during chemical reactions.