What is the Octet Rule? Every atom will try to reach stability by having 8 electrons in their outer energy shell Every atom will try to reach 8 electrons only

The Octet Rule is a chemical rule of thumb that reflects the theory that atoms are more stable when they have eight electrons in their valence shell. This rule is applicable to the main-group elements, especially the representative elements, and is used to predict the stability of atoms in molecules. The rule is based on the observation that atoms of main-group elements tend to combine in ways that each atom has eight electrons in its valence shell, giving it the same electronic configuration as a noble gas. The Octet Rule is not a strict rule and there are exceptions, but it is a useful guideline for understanding the formation of chemical bonds.