To determine the common property among the elements nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and arsenic (As), we need to analyze the information provided about these elements.
Firstly, let's examine whether they have the same amount of atomic mass. The atomic mass of nitrogen is approximately 14 atomic mass units (amu), phosphorus is approximately 31 amu, and arsenic is approximately 75 amu. Since these values are different, we can conclude that these elements do not share the same atomic mass.
Next, let's determine if they have the same amount of reactivity. Reactivity refers to how easily an element can undergo a chemical reaction. It cannot be established just by looking at the elements' names. Reactivity depends on various factors, such as electron configuration and bonding tendencies. Therefore, we cannot determine if they have the same amount of reactivity based solely on the information provided.
Moving on, let's consider whether these elements have the same number of valence electrons. Valence electrons are the electrons found in the outermost energy level of an atom and are responsible for chemical bonding and reactions. To find the number of valence electrons for each element, we need to look at their position in the periodic table. Nitrogen is in group 15, so it has 5 valence electrons. Phosphorus is also in group 15, so it has 5 valence electrons. Arsenic is in group 15 as well, so it also has 5 valence electrons. Based on this information, we can conclude that these elements share the same number of valence electrons.
Lastly, let's assess whether they have the same atomic radius size. The atomic radius refers to the size of the atom, and it can vary depending on the element and its position in the periodic table. Nitrogen, phosphorus, and arsenic are all found in the same period (period 3) in the periodic table. As you move across a period from left to right, the atomic radius shrinks due to the increasing positive charge of the nucleus. Therefore, nitrogen, being on the left side, will generally have a larger atomic radius than phosphorus and arsenic. Thus, we can conclude that these elements do not have the same atomic radius size.
In conclusion, the only common property among nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and arsenic (As) based on the given information is that they have the same number of valence electrons. Therefore, the correct answer choice would be:
- they have the same number of valance electrons