Question
Why nitrogen exists as diatomic molecule $N _2$, whereas phosphorus exists as tetratomic molecule, $P _4$.

Answer

Nitrogen from $p \pi-p \pi$ multiple bond easily so it is found in $N _2$ form. The tendency to form $p \pi-p \pi$ multiple bonds decrease down the group due to large size and lower electro-negativity of other members. So phosphorous exist in $P _4$ form.

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