Question

Which amongst the following molecules consist of a triple bond?

• A. Hydrogen chloride ($HCl$)
• B. Oxygen molecule ($O_2$)
• C. Nitrogen molecule ($N_2$)
• D. Fluorine molecule ($F_2$)

Answer 1

The correct option is C Nitrogen molecule ($N_2$)

Based on the number of electrons shared between the atoms, the covalent bond is classified as single, double or triple bond respectively. In a triple covalent bond, three electron pairs are shared and these bonds are represented by three dashes ($\equiv$).

Nitrogen atom has five valence electrons, it achieves nearest noble gas electronic configuration by sharing three electrons with other nitrogen atom. Thus, forming a triple bond.

Bonding in nitrogen is represented as $N\equiv N$ as given below:

$O_2$: Oxygen atoms shares two electrons each from their valence shell and forms a double bond.
$F_2$ and HCl: Fluorine, hydrogen and chlorine needs one electron each. Thus, fluorine and hydrogen chloride molecules have a single bond between the participating atoms.