An element M of Group 15 has a maximum covalency of four due to the absence of d-orbitals in its valence shell, but it can form strong p - p multiple bonds with oxygen. Which of the following is a direct consequence of these properties?

Step-by-step solution

The element M described is nitrogen. Because nitrogen lacks d-orbitals in its valence shell, its maximum covalency is restricted to 4. Therefore, it cannot accommodate five halogen atoms to form pentahalides (e.g., NCl ₅ does not exist). However, nitrogen can form strong p - p multiple bonds with oxygen. In oxides like N ₂ O ₅ , nitrogen achieves a +5 oxidation state while maintaining a covalency of 4 (through a combination of single, double, and coordinate bonds). Thus, it forms oxides in the +5 oxidation state bu