Question

which of these elements forms the same number of covalent bonds (shared electron pairs) as phosphorus does? choose 1 answer: a nitrogen b oxygen c sulfur d chlorine

Explanation:

Phosphorus (P) is in group 15 of the periodic table, has 5 valence electrons, and typically forms 3 covalent bonds (to complete its octet, it needs 3 more electrons, sharing 3 pairs). Nitrogen (N) is also in group 15, has 5 valence electrons, and also typically forms 3 covalent bonds. Oxygen (group 16) forms 2 bonds, sulfur (group 16, can vary but often 2 or more, but not 3 like P), chlorine (group 17) forms 1 bond. So nitrogen matches phosphorus in covalent bond number.

Answer:

A. nitrogen