Answer:
3 Na atoms each lose 1 electron, forming 3 cations. 1 N atom gains 3 electrons, forming a anion. The ions attract, forming Na₃N .
Step-by-step explanation:
- A Na(sodium) atom have 1 valence electron in its outermost orbit and hence donates a electron to complete its octet. After loosing a electron Na attains a positive(known as as cation) charge.
- Whereas, a N(nitrogen) atom have 5 valence electrons in its outermost orbit and hence accepts 3 electrons(from Na in this case) to complete its octate. After accepting electrons N attains negative(known as anion) charge.
Result: 3 Na atoms donates 1 electron each to a N atom to form Na₃N.