Question

In what ways does nitrogen differ from the other elements of group 15?

Answer 1

1. Nitrogen is a gas at room temperature; others are solids.
2. Nitrogen exists as diatomic molecules (N₂), while others form polyatomic molecules like P₄.
3. Nitrogen forms hydrogen bonds; others do not.
4. Nitrogen forms pπ-pπ multiple bonds; others use dπ-pπ bonding.
5. Nitrogen has a wider range of oxidation states (−3 to +5).
6. Its hydride (NH₃) is more stable and basic than others.
7. Nitrogen trihalides are mostly unstable except NF₃; others have stable trihalides.
8. Nitrogen does not form pentahalides due to lack of d-orbitals; others do.
9. Nitrogen does not form complexes; others can form complexes.