Question

atoms with 5 valence electrons usually form how many bonds?

Answer 1

Atoms strive for octet stability (H and He are happy with duet stability.) Each covalent bond you form allows you to double count a pair electrons (the pair of electrons counts for both atoms). This means each covalent bond allows you to add 1 to your valence electrons. Once you reach 8, you stop. How many covalent bonds do you need to go from 5 to 8 electrons?

Answer 2

This is also depending on what kind of structure you are drawing and how many other atoms are there.If you drawing a Lewis structure 1 bond represents 2 electrons.Than there are lone pairs to be also accounted for.So for a Lewis structure i would say one bond and 1 lone pair.There is also something called one and a half bond but you only learn that in quantum mechanics.

Answer 3

There is a formula:
8- #of valence electrons = predicted number of bonds formed
Therefore: 8-5=3
(i.e. Nitrogen in NH3)

Answer 4

also be aware that phosphorus (which has 5 valence electrons) makes 5 bonds. most atoms do try to make an octet, but there are a few exceptions to this rule.