why is nitrogen is different from neon?

Nitrogen (N) and neon (Ne) are different from each other for several reasons:

1. Atomic Number: Nitrogen has an atomic number of 7, which means it has 7 protons in its nucleus, while neon has an atomic number of 10, with 10 protons in its nucleus.

2. Classification: Nitrogen is a nonmetal and is part of the p-block in group 15 of the periodic table, known as the nitrogen group. On the other hand, neon is a noble gas and is part of group 18.

3. Electron Configuration: Nitrogen's electron configuration is [He]2s²2p³, meaning after the first two electrons fill the 1s orbit, the next two fill the 2s orbit, and then three electrons enter into the 2p orbitals, leaving it with five valence electrons. Neon's configuration is [He]2s²2p⁶, which shows it has a completely filled outer shell with eight valence electrons, making it very stable and chemically inert.

4. Chemical Properties: Nitrogen is reactive, and it readily forms compounds with various elements and molecules. For instance, nitrogen is essential for the formation of amino acids, which are the building blocks of proteins. Neon, however, is inert and does not form compounds under normal conditions due to its complete valence electron shell.

5. Physical States: At room temperature, nitrogen is a gas, which is a diatomic molecule (N₂), meaning two nitrogen atoms are covalently bonded together. Neon is also a gas at room temperature but exists as single, monatomic atoms (Ne).

6. Usage: Nitrogen has numerous applications, such as in the manufacture of fertilizers, explosives, and as a refrigerant in its liquid form. Neon is used primarily in lighting (neon signs) and in high-voltage indicators because it glows distinctively in discharge tubes.