How many valence electrons are present in a neutral atom of nitrogen (N)?

• A. 2
• B. 3
• C. 5
• D. 7

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the element in question, which is nitrogen (N).
2. Recall that the number of valence electrons corresponds to the electrons in the outermost shell of the atom.
3. Determine the electron configuration of nitrogen: \$1s^2 2s^2 2p^3$.
4. Recognize that the outermost shell for nitrogen is the second shell, which contains the \$2s$ and \$2p$ electrons.
5. Count the electrons in the outermost shell: \(2\) electrons in \$2s$ and \(3\) electrons in \$2p$, totaling \(5\) valence electrons.