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Which of the following elements should have properties similar to those of nitrogen (element 7)?

a. C

b. Si

c. P

d. O

User Alex Link
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2 Answers

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Final answer:

Phosphorus (P) has properties most similar to nitrogen because they are in the same group on the periodic table. Both elements have five valence electrons, defining their chemical behavior. Nitrogen also has two electron shells.

Step-by-step explanation:

Among the elements listed, phosphorus (P) will have chemical properties most similar to those of nitrogen (element 7), because they belong to the same group (Group 15 or 5A) in the periodic table. This similarity in properties is due to both elements having the same number of valence electrons, which is five. These valence electrons are what determine the chemical behavior of an element.

As for the other options: Silicon (Si) has some similar properties but is more metallic in character as it belongs to Group 14; Carbon (C) has one fewer valence electron and different bonding capabilities; and Oxygen (O) has one more valence electron and belongs to Group 16, making its properties dissimilar to Nitrogen.

To answer the additional question, nitrogen has two electron shells, as elements in the second period of the periodic table have two energy levels.

User Jpriebe
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5 votes

Answer:

C. Phosphorus

Step-by-step explanation:

Elements in the same group (column) of the periodic table have similar chemical properties. Nitrogen is in Group 15, also known as Group VA.

a. C (Carbon) - Carbon is in Group 14, not in the same group as nitrogen.

b. Si (Silicon) - Silicon is in Group 14, not in the same group as nitrogen.

c. P (Phosphorus) - Phosphorus is in Group 15, the same group as nitrogen.

d. O (Oxygen) - Oxygen is in Group 16, not in the same group as nitrogen.

Therefore, the element that should have properties similar to those of nitrogen is phosphorus.

User Tatsuya Fujisaki
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