Question

Maximum number of covalent bonds formed by $N$ and $P$ are

• A. 3,5
• B. 3,6
• C. 3,4,5
• D. 3,4,6
• E. None of the above

Answer 1

Answer: (E)

The outermost orbital of $N$ -atom contain 3 unpaired electrons and has $n=2$



Thus, it is not able to expand its octet and can only form 3 covalent bonds.

It can also form one coordinate bond with the help of one lone-pair of electrons over $N$ -atom $(\therefore$ total $=4)$

On the other hand, the outer most orbital for $P$ is $n=3$

which contain $3d$ empty orbitals.



(has 5-unpaired electrons) Thus, none of the given are correct.