How many bonds would be needed when bonding 2 atoms of nitrogen to achieve a full octet for both atoms?

3 bonds are needed.

Explanation:

The electrons that are involved in chemical bonding are those in the outer shell of the highest energy level of the atom. The electron configuration of nitrogen (N) is 1s²2s²2p³. That means thy at each nitrogen atom has 5 valence electrons: 2 electrons in the 2s orbital and 3 electrons in the 2p orbital. To fullfil the octet, each nitrogen atom needs 3 electrons. So, they can share each other 3 electrons to form 3 simple bonds. Therefore, the nitrogen molecule (N₂) has 3 bonds involving 6 bonding electrons or a triple bond.