The combining power (or capacity) of an element is known as its valency .

 

We know that atoms lose or gain electrons to attain stable electron configuration , that is, completely filled outermost shell ( octet rule ).

 

The number of electrons that should be lost or gained to achieve this stable configuration is known as valency .

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CA Maninder Singh is a Chartered Accountant for the past 14 years and a teacher from the past 18 years. He teaches Science, Economics, Accounting and English at Teachoo