How many hydrogen atoms will bond with each nitrogen atom?
To determine the number of hydrogen atoms that will bond with each nitrogen atom, we need to understand the valency or bonding capacity of nitrogen.
Nitrogen has an atomic number of 7, meaning it has 7 protons, and in its neutral state, it also has 7 electrons. One of the ways that nitrogen can achieve a stable electron configuration is by forming covalent bonds with other atoms.
The electronic configuration of nitrogen is 1s² 2s² 2p³. In order to complete its outer electron shell, nitrogen requires three more electrons. Each hydrogen atom has one electron, which it can share with nitrogen to achieve a stable configuration. Nitrogen can form multiple bonds, so it is capable of forming three covalent bonds with hydrogen atoms.
Therefore, each nitrogen atom can bond with up to three hydrogen atoms.