Chemistry Chemical Bonding MDCAT 2010
PMDC Verified Question 100 of 102
The number of bonds in nitrogen molecule (\( \text{N}_2 \)) is:
A
One \( \sigma \) and one \( \pi \)
B
Three \( \sigma \) only
C
One \( \sigma \) and two \( \pi \)
D
Two \( \sigma \) and one \( \pi \)
Tap any option to test your recall and reveal the step-by-step Propolis autopsy.

Propolis Cognitive Error Autopsy

Official Correct Choice:
Option C: One \( \sigma \) and two \( \pi \)
Concept:

Diatomic nitrogen contains a triple bond. A multiple bond always consists of exactly one sigma (\( \sigma \)) bond, with the remainder being pi (\( \pi \)) bonds.

Formula:

$$ \text{N} \equiv \text{N} $$

Solution:

  • To satisfy their octets, two Nitrogen atoms (Group VA, 5 valence electrons) share 3 pairs of electrons.


  • The first bond formed directly between the nuclei is a strong \( \sigma \) bond due to head-on overlap.


  • The second and third bonds are formed by the sideways overlap of unhybridized p-orbitals, creating two \( \pi \) bonds.


Why other options are incorrect:

  • Option A: Describes a double bond (e.g., in \( \text{O}_2 \)).
  • Option B & Option D: Are physically impossible between two single atoms.

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