Question

Classify the element Nitrogen $\left(\mathrm{N}\right)$ on the basis of its valency.

Answer 1

Valency: The valency of an atom refers to an ability to combine. The valency of an element determines how many bonds an atom can form as part of a compound.

• An atomic number of nitrogen is 7 and electronic configuration is 2, 5.
• It has 5 electrons in its outermost shell but it is easy for nitrogen to gain 3 electrons instead of losing 5 electrons.
• After gaining 3 electrons nitrogen completes its octet.

Hence, the valency of nitrogen is 8 – 5 = 3.

So, it is trivalent.