Question

which statement about nitrogen (n) and phosphorus (p) is correct? (1 point) they have the same number of electron shells they are both classified as halogens. they have the same number of valence electrons. they are both inert

Explanation:

• Nitrogen (N) is in period 2 (2 electron shells) and phosphorus (P) is in period 3 (3 electron shells), so they don't have the same number of electron shells.
• Halogens are group 17 elements (e.g., F, Cl, Br), while N and P are in group 15.
• Nitrogen has 5 valence electrons (\(2s^{2}2p^{3}\)) and phosphorus has 5 valence electrons (\(3s^{2}3p^{3}\)) as they are in the same group (group 15).
• Inert (noble - gas like) elements have full valence shells. N and P do not have full valence shells.

Answer:

They have the same number of valence electrons.