How many electrons does nitrogen have to gain when it becomes an ion?

1 Answer
Jul 27, 2016

To become an ion, a nitrogen atom simply has to gain or lose an electron, but......

Explanation:

But typically a nitrogen atom gains 3 electrons to form the nitride ion, #N^(3-)#.

Lithium metal under dinitrogen undergoes oxidation to give lithium nitride:

#6Li + N_2 rarr 2Li_3N#