Question

Atoms form ions by gaining or losing valence electrons to reach a more stable electron configuration with a full valence shell. The electron configuration of the ion is similar to the nearest noble gas to the atom. Identify the charge when nitrogen becomes an ion.

A) -3

B) -2

C) +1

D) +5

Thanks <3

Answer 1

I believe the answer is A

Answer 2

Answer: A) -3

Step-by-step explanation:

Ions are formed when an atom looses or gain electrons.

When an atom looses its electron, it results in the formation of a positive ion which is known as cation and when an atom gains electron, it results in the formation of a negative ion known as anion.

Atomic number of nitrogen is 7 and thus has 7 electrons.

Electronic configuration of nitrogen:

`[N]:7:1s^22s^22p^3`

In order to achieve nearest noble gas configuration of neon , it must gain 3 electrons.
`N^(3-)` is formed by gain of 3 electrons and thus has 10 electrons.

`[N^(3-)]:10:1s^22s^22p^6`

Thus nitrogen gains 3- charge when electron configuration of the ion is similar to the nearest noble gas to the atom.