Which group of the periodic table has a charge of -3?

Group VA of the periodic table consists of elements that typically gain three electrons when they form ions. This ion formation leads to the acquisition of a negative charge of -3. The group includes nitrogen, phosphorus, arsenic, antimony, and bismuth. These elements have five valence electrons, and gaining three more allows them to achieve a stable electron configuration. As a result, they commonly form anions with a charge of -3, such as nitride (N³⁻) and phosphide (P³⁻).

In contrast, other groups do not typically exhibit this -3 charge. Group IVA has a range of oxidation states, primarily +4 and +2, and does not form a consistent -3 charge. Group VIIA, also known as the halogens, typically has a charge of -1 when they gain one electron to fill their outer shell. Group IA elements (the alkali metals) tend to lose one electron, which results in a +1 charge. Thus, Group VA is distinct in its typical ionic charge of -3.