The number of pairs of electrons that are shared between nitrogen atoms in a molecule of [tex]{{\text{N}}_{\text{2}}}[/tex] is [tex]\boxed{\left( 3 \right){\text{ 3}}}[/tex].
Further explanation:
Covalent Bond
It is a type of chemical bond where electrons are mutually shared between the bonded atoms. This bond is also known as a molecular bond. The compounds formed as a result of this bonding are covalent compounds.
Octet Rule
It is a thumb rule that describes the tendency of elements to bond with other elements in order to acquire eight valence electrons. As a result, elements tend to achieve stable noble gas configuration.
The atomic number of nitrogen is 7 and it has an electronic configuration of [tex]1{s^2}2{s^2}2{p^3}[/tex]. Nitrogen has five valence electrons in it and is three electrons short of the stable noble gas configuration of neon. So it can share three electrons with another nitrogen atom to complete its octet. As a result, three covalent bonds are formed between two nitrogen atoms. In other words, nitrogen atoms have a triple bond between them in molecule (For structure, refer to the attached image).
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Answer details:
Grade: High School
Chapter: Ionic and covalent compounds
Subject: Chemistry
Keywords: covalent bonds, triple bond, nitrogen, 7, five, three, octet rule, covalent compound, molecular bond, electrons.
