Question
Question: What is the VSEPR model for \( {{N}_{2}} \) ?...
What is the VSEPR model for N2 ?
Solution
Hint : We know that in order to predict the geometry of molecules from a number of electron pairs surrounding their central atoms, we have a qualitative model known as Valence shell electron pair repulsion theory (VSEPR).
Complete Step By Step Answer:
Every molecule that is made of two atoms has linear shape. The electron pair and lone pairs in valence shells around the central atom repel each other and tend to orient in space so as to maximize the repulsions and maximize the distance between them. Bond pairs shared by two toms and are attracted by two nuclei. Hence they occupy less space and cause less repulsion. On the other hand lone pairs are not involved in the formation of bonds, in attraction with one nucleus only therefore occupy more space and cause more repulsion; multiple bonds are treated as one single bond.
The shape of molecules can be predicted from them from the number of electrons and type of electrons in the valence shell around the central atom. Double bond causes more repulsion than single bond. Prediction of the structure of molecules with a single central atom is easy. Here in the question we have a molecule both the nitrogen atoms will each share three electrons and thus, form three covalent bonds and make a nitrogen molecule N2.
By sharing six electrons where the shells touch each nitrogen atom can count eight electrons in its outer shell. The full outer shells with their shared electrons are stable as and it shown as:
:N≡N:
Note :
Remember whenever we come up with this type of question, one must know that molecular nitrogen N2 is a very common chemical compound in which two nitrogen atoms are tightly bound together. Molecular nitrogen is a colourless, odourless, tasteless, and inert gas at normal temperatures and pressures.