pnicogen

Pnicogen is a term used to describe elements belonging to Group 15 of the periodic table. This group, also known as the nitrogen group, includes nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), arsenic (As), antimony (Sb), bismuth (Bi), and the synthetic element moscovium (Mc). The name "pnicogen" derives from the Greek word "pnigein," meaning to choke or suffocate, a property exhibited by some of these elements, particularly nitrogen when it displaces oxygen.

These elements share common characteristics due to their valence electron configuration, which is ns²np³. This means they have five electrons in their outermost shell, with two in the s orbital and three in the p orbital. This electron configuration influences their chemical behavior, leading to a range of oxidation states, most commonly -3, +3, and +5. As one moves down the group, there is a transition from nonmetallic character (nitrogen, phosphorus) to metalloid (arsenic, antimony) and finally to metallic character (bismuth, moscovium).

Nitrogen is a diatomic gas and a major component of Earth's atmosphere. Phosphorus exists in various allotropes and is essential for life. Arsenic and antimony are known for their toxicity and have been used historically in various applications. Bismuth is a relatively non-toxic heavy metal with various industrial uses. Moscovium is a highly unstable, synthetic radioactive element.