The Elements Nitrogen, Oxygen, Fluorine, and Neon: Which Statements are True?

Let’s evaluate the statements about the elements nitrogen, oxygen, fluorine, and neon one by one:

1. They can form negative ions: This statement is partially true. Nitrogen and fluorine can form negative ions (anions), specifically nitride (N³⁻) and fluoride (F⁻) ions. Oxygen can also form the oxide ion (O²⁻). However, neon is a noble gas and does not typically form ions. Therefore, this statement is not entirely accurate.
2. They are made up of diatomic molecules: This statement is only true for nitrogen (N₂) and oxygen (O₂). Fluorine (F₂) is also a diatomic molecule, but neon (Ne) is a monatomic gas. Hence, this statement is not true for all four elements.
3. They have single bonds between the atoms: This statement is misleading. Nitrogen forms a triple bond (N≡N) in its diatomic molecular form, while oxygen forms a double bond (O=O). Fluorine has a single bond (F-F), but neon does not bond with other atoms at all. Therefore, this statement does not accurately describe all four elements.
4. They are gases at room temperature: This statement is true. All four elements—nitrogen, oxygen, fluorine, and neon—are gases at room temperature, making this the only accurate statement regarding these elements.

In conclusion, the only true statement among the options provided is that nitrogen, oxygen, fluorine, and neon are gases at room temperature.