How many pairs of electrons are shared between the nitrogen atoms in a molecule of N2?

Regents Chemistry Exam June 2024 Question 12

12 How many pairs of electrons are shared between the nitrogen atoms in a molecule of N2?

(1) 1

(2) 2 (3) 3

(4) 4

Solution:

Let's take a look at the Periodic Table and find nitrogen. Nitrogen is in Group 15 on the Periodic Table and has an oxidation number of -3 (top right corner). This means that nitrogen wants to gain three electrons to have an octet. Therefore, it will want to have three bonds, sharing three pairs of electrons. Alternatively, you can memorize that elements in Group 17 wants to have one bond, group 16 wants to have two bonds and group 15 wants to have three bonds. Choice 3 is correct.

LINKS:

Regents Chemistry Guides and Solutions

Chemistry Tutoring

More Regents Chemistry Practice