Question

How would you draw a Lewis structure of $N_3^ -$?

Answer 1

In order to draw a Lewis structure for $N_3^ -$, we must first know what a Lewis structure is. Lewis structure can also be called the Electron dot structure. This will describe the chemical bonding present between the atoms in a molecule.

Complete step by step answer:
- Let us understand deeply about the Lewis structure. Lewis structure is also called the electron structure. This will describe the nature of the bond present and the position of the atoms present in the molecule which are connected in the molecule. It will be easier to draw the electron dot structure, if we know the molecular or chemical formula of the compound. The Lewis structure will give the chemical bonding between the atoms. Each dot in the Lewis structure will represent an electron. When electron dots are present in the pairs it will represent the chemical bond.
- In order to write the Lewis structure for $N_3^ -$, we have to first calculate total valence electrons present in the $N_3^ -$molecule. Nitrogen is a chemical element with atomic number 7 and the electronic configuration of nitrogen is given as $1{s^2}2{s^2}2{p^3}$. It will be having 5 valence electrons in the outermost orbitals. In $N_3^ -$ molecules, there are five valence electrons and total three nitrogen atoms and as there is a negative charge, one electron will be added. Therefore, the total valence electron in $N_3^ -$molecules is 16.
i.e., $5 \times 3 + 1 = 16$
- The central atom is the nitrogen atom, now we have to place these valence electrons around the central metal atom in such a way that all the three nitrogen atoms will acquire an octet configuration.
The Lewis structure for $N_3^ -$ molecule is given below:

Note: We have to remember that the Lewis structure is very important because
- It will help to predict the geometry of the compound.
- polarity
- reactivity of organic and inorganic compounds.