Electronegativity Values

Unknown Element Electronegativity

A 3.44

B 0.79

C 1.8

D 2.0

Which two elements are most likely to form an ionic bond together?

A and B

B and C

A and D

C and D

A and B

Explanation:

The ionic bond is formed when there is large electronegativity difference is present between the bonded atoms.

Ionic bond:

It is the bond which is formed by the transfer of electron from one atom to the atom of another element.

Both bonded atoms have very large electronegativity difference. The atom with large electronegativity value accept the electron from other with smaller value of electronegativity.

For example:

Sodium chloride is ionic compound. The electronegativity of chlorine is 3.16 and for sodium is 0.93. There is large difference is present. That's why electron from sodium is transfer to the chlorine. Sodium becomes positive and chlorine becomes negative ion. Both atoms are bonded together electrostatic attraction occur between anion and cations.

Now we will calculate the electronegativity difference between given atoms.

A - B (3.44 - 0.79)

A - B (2.65)

B - C (1.8 - 0.79)

B - C (1.01)

A - D (3.44 - 1.8)

A - D (1.64)

C - D (2.0 - 1.8)

C - D (0.2)

So, A and B are most likely to form ionic bond.