Answer: ns 2 np 3.
- A ns<sup>2</sup>np<sup>3</sup>
- B ns<sup>2</sup>np<sup>4</sup>
- C ns<sup>2</sup>np<sup>2</sup>
- D ns<sup>2</sup>np<sup>5</sup>
Correct answer: A. ns<sup>2</sup>np<sup>3</sup>
Explanation: Group 15 (nitrogen family) elements have five valence electrons arranged as ns<sup>2</sup>np<sup>3</sup>, giving a half-filled p sub-shell that adds to their stability.
Xenon tetrafluoride (XeF4) has six electron domains around xenon — four Xe–F bonds plus two lone pairs. The lone pairs occupy opposite axial positions, leaving the four fluorine atoms in a square-planar shape (Xe–F ≈ 194 pm). Image: ChemSim, Public Domain, via Wikimedia Commons.
Concept context
Covers the nitrogen family (Group 15), oxygen family (Group 16), halogens (Group 17), and noble gases (Group 18). One of the highest-weightage inorganic chapters in NEET and JEE - includes preparation and properties of HNO₃, H₂SO₄, interhalogens, and xenon compounds.