What is the VSEPR code and shape of #N_2#?

1 Answer
Apr 8, 2016

A diatomic molecule must be linear, but it is the disposition of the electrons that is important.

Explanation:

Each nitrogen atom (#Z=7#) has #5# valence electrons, giving 10 valence electrons in total. 4 of these electrons are presumed to form lone pairs on each nitrogen atoms; the remaining 6 electrons are shared between the nitrogen nuclei to form a very stable triple bond, #:N-=N:#. This triple bond accounts for the very short #N-N# distance (#1.10xx10^(-10)m#), and the high bond dissociation energy of #226# #kcal*mol^-1#.