Question

Using electron-dot diagrams which show only the outermost shell electrons, show how a molecule of nitrogen, N₂, is formed from two nitrogen atoms. What name is given to this type of bonding?

(Atomic number of nitrogen is 7)

Answer 1

Nitrogen has an atomic number of 7, resulting in an electronic configuration of 2, 5. A nitrogen atom possesses 5 electrons in its valence shell. A nitrogen atom possesses 5 electrons in its valence shell and requires 3 additional electrons to attain the octet configuration characteristic of inert gases, hence achieving stability. Two nitrogen atoms unite by sharing three electrons each to form a nitrogen gas molecule.