QuestionTwo atoms with an electronegativity difference of 0.4 form a bond that is
1. ionic, because electrons are shared
2. ionic, because electrons are transferred
3. covalent, because electrons are shared
4. covalent, because electrons are transferred
Studdy Solution
STEP 1
What is this asking? Which statement correctly describes the bond formed between two atoms with an electronegativity difference of ? Watch out! Don't mix up *ionic* and *covalent* bonds, or sharing and transferring of electrons!
STEP 2
1. Electronegativity Difference
2. Bond Type
3. Electron Behavior
STEP 3
We're given that the electronegativity difference between the two atoms is .
This value tells us how strongly each atom attracts electrons in a bond.
A **small difference** means the atoms share electrons *fairly* equally.
A **large difference** means one atom pulls electrons much more strongly, essentially *stealing* them from the other atom.
STEP 4
Generally, an electronegativity difference of **less than** indicates a **covalent bond**, where electrons are *shared* between the atoms.
An electronegativity difference of ** or greater** usually indicates an **ionic bond**, where electrons are *transferred* from one atom to another, creating ions.
STEP 5
Our given electronegativity difference of is **less than** .
This tells us the bond is **covalent**.
STEP 6
Since we've determined the bond is covalent, we know the electrons are **shared** between the atoms, not transferred.
STEP 7
The correct answer is 3: covalent, because electrons are shared.
The electronegativity difference of is a key indicator of a covalent bond with shared electrons.
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