Question

What is the proper electron configuration for the cation N3- (Nitrogen with a -3 charge)?

a) 1s^2 2s^2 2p^5
b) 1s^2 2s^2 2p^3
c) 1s^2 2s^2 2p^6
d) 1s^2 2s^2 2p^4

Answer 1

The correct electron configuration for the N3- ion is 1s^2 2s^2 2p^6, as it gains three electrons to fill its 2p orbital like the noble gas neon.

Step-by-step explanation:

The proper electron configuration for the cation N3- (Nitrogen with a -3 charge) is 1s^2 2s^2 2p^6. This is because a neutral nitrogen atom has the electron configuration 1s^2 2s^2 2p^3, and by gaining three additional electrons to form the N3- ion, these electrons fill the 2p orbital. Thus, the complete electron configuration reflects a filled second shell, which is the same as that of the noble gas neon (Ne). Hence, the correct answer to this question is option c) 1s^2 2s^2 2p^6.