The element with 6 valence electrons is oxygen (O). Oxygen is a chemical element with the symbol O and atomic number 8. It is the most abundant element in the Earth's atmosphere and the oceans, and is the third most abundant element in the universe. Oxygen has six valence electrons and is a nonmetallic element that belongs to the chalcogen group. It is a colorless, odorless, tasteless gas with a density of 1.429 g/L at 0 °C and a boiling point of -183 °C. Oxygen is essential for life and is used by organisms for respiration.