The general valence shell electronic configuration of the Group…

Answer: ns²np³.

A ns²np³
B ns²np⁴
C ns²np²
D ns²np⁵

Correct answer: A. ns²np³

Explanation: Group 15 (nitrogen family) elements have five valence electrons arranged as ns²np³, giving a half-filled p sub-shell that adds to their stability.

Xenon tetrafluoride XeF4: a central xenon bonded to four fluorine atoms in a square-planar arrangement with two lone pairs above and below, Xe-F bond length 194 pm.

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.

Read the full p-Block Elements (Groups 15 to 18) notes →

The general valence shell electronic configuration of the Group 15 elements is:

Concept context

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