Solution
Core Logic
- Statement I is true: Nitrogen has a small atomic size and high electronegativity, allowing it to form strong multiple pπ - pπ bonds with oxygen atoms. This enables stable oxide forms across a wide range of oxidation numbers spanning +1 to +5 (e.g., N₂O₅).
- Statement II is true: Nitrogen is a second-period element with a valence shell configuration of 2s² 2p³. It completely lacks vacant 2d orbitals. As a result, it cannot expand its octet beyond a covalency of 4, preventing the synthesis of pentahalides like NX₅.
Pattern Recognition
Second-period elements are structurally bounded by a maximum covalency of 4 due to the complete absence of d-orbitals. This explains why NF₅ is unstable/non-existent while PF₅ is easily synthesized.
Chapter Mix
Class 12 Chemistry: The p-Block Elements