Question

Why is nitrogen molecule less reactive?

Hint:

The strong triple bond in nitrogen (N\(_2\)) makes it less reactive and requires high energy to break the bond for chemical reactions.

Answer 1

Step 1: Understand the structure of nitrogen.
Nitrogen (N\(_2\)) is a diatomic molecule with a triple bond between the two nitrogen atoms. The triple bond consists of one sigma bond and two pi bonds, making it very strong and stable.
Step 2: High bond dissociation energy.
The high bond dissociation energy required to break the N≡N triple bond makes nitrogen molecules less reactive. This means that a significant amount of energy is needed to break the bond and initiate a reaction.
Step 3: Electron pairing and stability.
Nitrogen atoms in the N\(_2\) molecule have a stable electron configuration with a full outer shell, and the molecule has no available lone pairs or empty orbitals to react easily with other molecules. This lack of reactivity is due to the inertness of the nitrogen molecule.
Step 4: Conclusion.
Nitrogen molecules are less reactive due to the strength of the triple bond and the stability of the molecule.
Final Answer: Nitrogen molecules are less reactive because of the strong triple bond between nitrogen atoms and the stability of the molecule.
Final Answer: \[ \boxed{\text{Nitrogen molecules are less reactive due to the strong triple bond and the stability of the molecule.}} \]