Problem 11 - Chemistry A Guided Inquiry

Question

For \(\mathrm{N}_{2}\), is the sum of the bonding electrons and nonbonding electrons around each nitrogen atom consistent with the Lewis model?

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

Yes, the sum of the bonding and nonbonding electrons around each nitrogen atom in \(\mathrm{N}_{2}\) is consistent with the Lewis model.

Step 1: Determine the Number of Valence Electrons

Nitrogen, being in Group 5A of the periodic table, has 5 valence electrons. Since there are two nitrogen atoms, the total number of valence electrons is \(2 \times 5 = 10\).

Step 2: Create a Skeletal Structure

Draw a line between the two Nitrogen atoms to represent a single bond, and this will use 2 of the 10 valence electrons.

Step 3: Distribute Remaining Electrons

Each nitrogen still needs 3 more pairs of electrons to complete its octet. So, draw 3 more lines (representing pairs of electrons) in between the nitrogen atoms, making a total of 3 bonds (a triple bond).

Step 4: Check the Electron Count

Count the number of electrons around each Nitrogen. Any nitrogen will be surrounded by 8 electrons (6 from the triple bond and 2 lone electrons), which is consistent with the Lewis model.