The electronic configuration of nitrogen is (2, 5). How many electrons in the outer shell of nitrogen atom are not involved in the formation of a nitrogen molecule?

Question:

The electronic configuration of nitrogen is (2, 5). How many electrons in the outer shell of nitrogen atom are not involved in the formation of a nitrogen molecule?

Solution:

2

Explanation:

Nitrogen needs 3 electrons to complete its octet because it has 5 electrons its valence shell. So, it shares 3 electrons with the other nitrogen atom in the molecule. 

Thus, out of 5, 3 electrons are being shared so 2 electrons will not be involved.