Define valency and explain how it is related to the electron configuration of an atom.

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Valency is the combining capacity of an element, indicating the number of electrons an atom will gain, lose, or share to achieve a stable electron configuration (usually a full outermost shell). It is determined by the number of electrons in the outermost shell (valence electrons); atoms tend to react to achieve an octet (or duet for hydrogen/helium).

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