Although nitrogen and chlorine have the same electronegativity, nitrogen atoms form stronger hydrogen bonds than chlorine atoms. This is due to

the smaller size of nitrogen

The correct answer is option 2. the smaller size of nitrogen.

The reason nitrogen forms stronger hydrogen bonds than chlorine is due tothe smaller size of nitrogen.

Here is why the other options are not the answer:

(1) Basic character: While nitrogen can act as a base, this property isn't directly related to hydrogen bond strength.

(3) Lesser number of electrons: Both nitrogen and chlorine have the same number of valence electrons (five).

(4) Inertness: Inertness refers to an atom's resistance to reactions, which doesn't explain the difference in hydrogen bonding ability.

The key factor lies in the size of the atom:

Nitrogen (N): Smaller size means its electron cloud is more concentrated. This results in a more uneven distribution of electrons, creating a stronger positive region around the nucleus that can attract the partially negative hydrogen atom in another molecule (hydrogen bond donor).

Chlorine (Cl): Larger size leads to a more diffuse electron cloud. The positive region around the chlorine nucleus is weaker, resulting in a less effective attraction for the hydrogen atom in hydrogen bonding.

In summary, the smaller size of nitrogen allows for a more concentrated electron cloud, leading to a stronger positive region around the nucleus and ultimately, stronger hydrogen bonding compared to chlorine.