Question

answer the questions in the table below about the shape of the azide (n₃⁻) anion. how many electron groups are around the central nitrogen atom? note: one \electron group\ means one lone pair, one single bond, one double bond, or one triple bond. what phrase best describes the arrangement of these electron groups around the central nitrogen atom? (you may need to use the scrollbar to see all the choices.)

Explanation:

Step1: Draw Lewis structure of azide ion

The Lewis - structure of the azide ion ($N_3^-$) has the central nitrogen atom bonded to two other nitrogen atoms. The central nitrogen has two bonding groups (a bond to each of the terminal nitrogen atoms) and no lone - pairs.

Step2: Determine number of electron groups

Since one "electron group" is a lone - pair, single bond, double bond, or triple bond, and the central nitrogen has 2 bonding groups and 0 lone - pairs, the number of electron groups around the central nitrogen atom is 2.

Step3: Determine electron - group arrangement

According to the VSEPR (Valence - Shell Electron - Pair Repulsion) theory, when there are 2 electron groups around a central atom, the electron - group arrangement is linear.

Answer:

How many electron groups are around the central nitrogen atom? 2
What phrase best describes the arrangement of these electron groups around the central nitrogen atom? Linear