Nitrogen typically forms covalent bonds. In its most common form, nitrogen exists as a diatomic molecule (N2), where two nitrogen atoms are bonded together by a strong triple covalent bond. This bond is formed by the sharing of three pairs of electrons between the two nitrogen atoms.
Covalent bonds occur when atoms share electrons to achieve a stable electron configuration. In the case of nitrogen, each atom has five valence electrons and needs three more to complete its outer shell. By sharing three electrons with another nitrogen atom, both atoms achieve a stable octet configuration.
Nitrogen can also form covalent bonds with other elements, such as hydrogen in ammonia (NH3) or oxygen in nitrogen oxides (NO, NO2, etc.). These compounds are also held together by covalent bonds.
In summary, nitrogen primarily forms covalent bonds, both in its diatomic form and in compounds with other elements.