Chemistry
Explain the octet rule for formation of —
(a) Sodium chloride from a sodium atom and a chlorine atom.
(b) Nitrogen molecule from two nitrogen atoms.
Atomic Structure
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Answer
(a) As Na atom has atomic number 11 and electronic configuration [2, 8, 1]. Therefore, it tends to lose 1 electron from its valence shell forming Na1+ (cation) to attain a stable octet configuration of the nearest noble gas Neon [2, 8].
Cl, on the other hand has atomic number 17 and electronic configuration [2, 8, 7]. Therefore, it tries to gain one electron in its valence shell forming Cl1- (anion) to attain a stable octet configuration of the nearest noble gas Argon [2, 8, 8].
The oppositely charged cation and anion attract each other with a force - [electrostatic force of attraction] resulting in formation of an ionic or electrovalent compound [NaCl] as shown below.
(b) Nitrogen atom (147N) has atomic number 7 and electronic configuration [2, 5]. To attain stable octet structure of the nearest noble gas Neon [2, 8], Nitrogen needs three electrons in the valence shell. Nitrogen atom shares electron pairs with other nitrogen atom resulting in the formation of a molecular or covalent bond as shown below:
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Related Questions
Differentiate between the terms —
Stable and unstable electronic configuration
Differentiate between the terms —
Duplet and octet rule.
Select the correct answer from the answers in brackets to complete each sentence.
- An element has electronic configuration 2, 8, 1 and 12 neutrons. Its mass no. is …………… [11/23/12]
- The maximum number of electrons in M-shell is …………… [8/32/18]
- Isotopes have same …………… [no. of neutrons / electronic configuration / atomic masses].
- An …………… [atom/ion] is capable of independent existence in solution.
- An atom with electronic configuration 2, 7 and mass number 19 will have …………… neutrons. [8/10/12]
Give reasons for the following.
The physical properties of isotopes of the same element are not identical.