Question

why does nitrogen form a triple bond in n₂?
a. to share three pairs of electrons for a full octet
b. to transfer electrons from one atom to the other
c. because it only needs two bonds to complete its octet
d. because it has high metallic character

Explanation:

Nitrogen has 5 valence electrons. To achieve a stable octet (8 - electron) configuration, each nitrogen atom needs 3 more electrons. By sharing three pairs of electrons (a triple bond), each nitrogen atom gets a full octet. Option B is incorrect as nitrogen forms a covalent (shared - electron) bond, not an electron - transfer (ionic) bond. Option C is wrong because nitrogen needs 3 bonds (triple bond) for an octet. Option D is incorrect as nitrogen is a non - metal with low metallic character.

Answer:

A. To share three pairs of electrons for a full octet