Lewis Structure

N2 Lewis Structure

Nitrogen

N2 has a triple bond between the two nitrogen atoms and one lone pair on each nitrogen.

Use the diagram and steps below to check the nitrogen Lewis structure, N2 Lewis dot structure, valence electrons, formal charges, and molecular shape.

N2

Nitrogen

10 e-
N N
Valence electrons10
Central atomNone
GeometryLinear
Bond angleNot applicable
PolarityNonpolar
Electron geometryNot applicable (diatomic)

Molecular Geometry

Molecular geometry Linear
Bond angle Not applicable
Polarity Nonpolar
Valence electrons 10
Bond pairs / lone pairs per atom 3 / 1 each

How to Draw N2: Step-by-Step

1

Parse the molecular formula

N2 -> N, N

The molecule contains two nitrogen atoms.

2

Count total valence electrons

5 + 5 = 10

Each nitrogen atom contributes 5 valence electrons.

3

Draw the skeleton

N-N

Start by connecting the two nitrogen atoms with a single bond.

4

Form a triple bond

N triple bond N

Three shared electron pairs give both nitrogen atoms an octet.

5

Place lone pairs

One lone pair on each N

The remaining 4 electrons form one lone pair on each nitrogen atom.

6

Final answer

The N2 Lewis structure has an N-N triple bond and one lone pair on each nitrogen. Both formal charges are 0.

Formal Charges

AtomFormal charge
N0 each

Common Mistakes

  • A double bond leaves each nitrogen short of an octet.
  • Both nitrogen atoms are equivalent.

FAQ

What is the Lewis structure for N2?

The N2 Lewis structure has an N-N triple bond and one lone pair on each nitrogen. Both formal charges are 0.

What is the Lewis dot structure for N2?

The Lewis dot structure for N2 is the electron-dot drawing shown above. The N2 Lewis structure has an N-N triple bond and one lone pair on each nitrogen. Both formal charges are 0.

How many valence electrons does N2 have?

N2 has 10 total valence electrons in this Lewis structure.

What is the molecular geometry of N2?

N2 is a diatomic molecule, so it is linear. VSEPR electron geometry around a central atom does not apply.

Is N2 polar or nonpolar?

N2 is nonpolar in the Lewis structure shown here. Its molecular geometry is Linear.

References

Method notes are aligned with standard Lewis structure steps: count valence electrons, draw a skeleton, distribute electrons, form multiple bonds when needed, and check formal charges and resonance.

OpenStax Chemistry 2e: Lewis Symbols and Structures and Formal Charges and Resonance.