valenceshell
nounUK /ˈveɪləns ʃɛl/
US /ˈveɪləns ʃɛl/
The outer layer of an atom where electrons hang out.
The valence shell of a sodium atom holds just one electron.
RELATED WORDS
OTHER MEANINGS
2. The set of electrons that can take part in bonding with other atoms.
Atoms share electrons from their valence shell to form molecules.
3. A figurative outer boundary of influence or reach.
The company's valence shell of customers extends across three continents.
4. In computing, the outermost layer of a system that interacts with the outside world.
The API acts as the valence shell of the software platform.