The spheres below represent atoms of Sb,As,P,and N (not necessarily in that order).
-Which one of these spheres represents an atom of P?
A)sphere (a)
B)sphere (b)
C)sphere (c)
D)sphere (d)

Question

The spheres below represent atoms of Sb,As,P,and N (not necessarily in that order). 
-Which one of these spheres represents an atom of P?
A)sphere (a) 
B)sphere (b) 
C)sphere (c) 
D)sphere (d)

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The atom of P has 5 valence electrons, which means that it can form up to three covalent bonds with other atoms in order to complete its octet. 
Sphere (b) has three bonds represented by the sticks attached to it, indicating that it can form up to one more bond. This is consistent with P as it has one more valence electron than the other atoms in the diagram. Therefore, sphere (b) represents an atom of P.

The Spheres Below Represent Atoms of Sb,As,P,and N (Not Necessarily