Chapter 18, Problem 18STP

To determine

To describe: the bond holding the atoms together in this molecule.

Explanation of Solution

Introduction:

Bonds can be two types such as ionic bonding and covalent bonding. In ionic bond, transfer of electrons occurs and in case of covalent bond, sharing of electrons occurs.

The given diagram is shown below:

Nitrogen belongs to the group 15 and is a non-metal. The figure shows two nitrogen atoms. There are 5 valence electrons present on each nitrogen atom as shown in the figure.

The maximum number of electrons with which nitrogen can accommodate in its outermost shell to achieve stability is 8. Each nitrogen shares 3 electrons with other nitrogen to complete its outermost shell. Hence, this results in the triple bond between two nitrogen atoms.

The bond formed by the sharing of electrons between two nitrogen atoms is covalent bond. There is no charge separation between the nitrogen atoms. Thus, bond holding the nitrogen atoms together is also called a non-polar covalent bond.

Conclusion:

Hence, non-polar covalent bond holds the atoms together in this molecule.