which statement about nitrogen and phosphorus is correct?

Question

they have the same number of electron shells
they are both classified as halogens
they are both inert
they have the same number of valence electrons

Answer 1

The correct statement about nitrogen and phosphorus is:

They have the same number of valence electrons.

Both nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) are in Group 15 of the periodic table and have five valence electrons.

Here's a brief overview of the incorrect options:

• They have the same number of electron shells: This is incorrect. Nitrogen has two electron shells, while phosphorus has three.

• They are both classified as halogens: This is incorrect. Nitrogen and phosphorus are not halogens; they are nonmetals in Group 15, while halogens are in Group 17.

• They are both inert: This is also incorrect. Nitrogen is relatively inert at room temperature, but phosphorus is not inert and can react with various substances.