Question

Why does nitrogen differ from other elements of its group in its chemical behaviour?

Answer 1

1. Nitrogen is smaller in size and has higher ionisation energy than other group 15 elements.
2. It has higher electronegativity and lacks d-orbitals in its valence shell.
3. Nitrogen exists as a diatomic gas (N₂), while others exist as solids with tetra-atomic molecules (like P₄).
4. It can form strong pπ-pπ multiple bonds; others rely on dπ-pπ bonding.
5. Nitrogen forms hydrogen bonds in compounds; others do not.
6. It shows a wider range of oxidation states (−3 to +5) compared to others.
7. Nitrogen’s hydride (NH₃) is stable and strongly basic; other hydrides are less stable and basic.
8. Nitrogen trihalides are mostly unstable, except NF₃, unlike the stable trihalides of other elements.
9. Nitrogen does not form pentahalides or complexes due to the absence of d-orbitals, unlike others.