To determine the number of valence electrons for nitrogen (N) in Period 2, we can use the concept that elements in the same period (row) of the periodic table have their valence electrons in the same principal energy level. The valence electrons are those in the outermost shell of an atom.
Let's recall the positions of the elements in Period 2:
- Li (Lithium)
- Be (Beryllium)
- B (Boron)
- C (Carbon)
- N (Nitrogen)
- O (Oxygen)
- F (Fluorine)
- Ne (Neon)
From the given table:
- Lithium (Li) has 1 valence electron.
- Beryllium (Be) has 2 valence electrons.
We can use this as the starting point and count the number of valence electrons as we move across the period:
1. Lithium (Li) has 1 valence electron.
2. Beryllium (Be) has 2 valence electrons.
3. Boron (B) will have 3 valence electrons.
4. Carbon (C) will have 4 valence electrons.
5. Nitrogen (N) will then have 5 valence electrons.
Therefore, the number of valence electrons for nitrogen (N) is 5.
So, the answer is:
C. 5
