posted by Star :) .
How can atoms with fewer than 8 valence electrons fill their outermost energy level? (If you can, can you please help me use either sulfur or magnesium to explain the process please?) Thank You!
This is definitely not my field but you may find ideas in this GOOGLE Search :
They can either share electrons with other atoms (forming covalent bonds) or gain/lose electrons with other atoms (forming ionic bonds).