Question

Explain why nitrogen is much less reactive than phosphorous?

Answer 1

Nitrogen is chemically less reactive. This is because of the high stability of its molecule, $N_2$. In $N_2$, the two nitrogen atoms form a triple bond. This triple bond has very high bond strength, which is very difficult to break. It is because of nitrogen's small size that it is able to form $p\pi -p\pi$ bonds with itself. This property is not exhibited by atoms such as phosphorus. Thus, phosphorus is more reactive than nitrogen.