Are atoms more stable as elements or compounds?

Unless it is an element that has a full valence shell naturally

• like neon, krypton, etc. - atoms are incredibly unstable. When a

compound is formed the atoms either share or exchange electrons in order to completely fill their valence shells. Unless it is an element that has a full valence shell naturally - like neon, krypton, etc. - atoms are incredibly unstable. When a compound is formed the atoms either share or exchange electrons in order to completely fill their valence shells.