The maximum covalency of nitrogen is

Options

A. `6`
B. `5`
C. `4`
D. `3`

Answer

3

Explanation

Nitrogen is restricted to a maximum covalency of `4` because being a second period element `(n=2)`, it has only four atomic orbitals (one `2`s three `2`p) which are available for bonding . it does not have vacant `d`orbitals in its valence shell to expand its convalency beyound four. That is why it does not form pentahalides like `P`
For the same reason .`N` does not function as a Lewis acid whereas `p` does so:
`pF_(5) + :overset(..)underset(..)F: rarr PF_(6)^(-)`