Question

two representative elements, nitrogen and oxygen, are in the same period of the periodic table. which statement correctly describes the atoms of the two elements? (1 point) they have the same number of electrons. they have valence electrons in the same energy level. they have the same number of valence electrons. they have valence electrons in different energy levels.

Explanation:

1. Analyze the first option: Nitrogen (atomic number 7) has 7 electrons, and oxygen (atomic number 8) has 8 electrons. So they don't have the same number of electrons. Eliminate this option.
2. Analyze the second option: Elements in the same period have their valence electrons in the same principal energy level (same shell). Nitrogen and oxygen are in period 2, so their valence electrons are in the n = 2 energy level. This statement is correct.
3. Analyze the third option: Nitrogen has 5 valence electrons, and oxygen has 6 valence electrons. So they don't have the same number of valence electrons. Eliminate this option.
4. Analyze the fourth option: Since they are in the same period, their valence electrons are in the same energy level, not different. Eliminate this option.

Answer:

B. They have valence electrons in the same energy level.