Which of the following is the correct Lewis dot symbol for the nitride ion (N^{3-})?

• A. N with five dots and no charge: N surrounded by five dots
• B. N with eight dots and a 3- charge: N^{3-} surrounded by eight dots
• C. N with seven dots and a 1- charge: N^{-} surrounded by seven dots
• D. N with six dots and a 2- charge: N^{2-} surrounded by six dots

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Recall that the Lewis dot symbol represents the valence electrons of an atom or ion as dots around the element's symbol.
2. Determine the number of valence electrons for a neutral nitrogen atom. Nitrogen is in group 15, so it has 5 valence electrons.
3. Since the nitride ion has a 3- charge, it means it has gained 3 additional electrons, increasing the total valence electrons to 5 + 3 = 8.
4. Draw the Lewis dot symbol for the nitride ion by placing 8 dots (representing 8 valence electrons) around the nitrogen symbol, and include the 3- charge to indicate the ion's charge.
5. Compare the options given and select the one that shows nitrogen with 8 dots and a 3- charge, as this correctly represents the nitride ion's Lewis dot symbol.