Multiple Choice
As two atoms approach each other to form a chemical bond, what primarily causes the electron density between them to change?
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11. Bonding & Molecular Structure
Chemical Bonds
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Which factor primarily determines whether a chemical bond is ionic or covalent?
A
The number of neutrons in each atom
B
The atomic mass of the atoms involved
C
The physical state (solid, liquid, gas) of the compound
D
The difference in electronegativity between the two atoms
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand that the type of chemical bond formed between two atoms depends on how the electrons are shared or transferred between them.
Recall that electronegativity is a measure of an atom's ability to attract and hold onto electrons in a bond.
Recognize that when two atoms have a large difference in electronegativity, one atom tends to completely transfer electrons to the other, resulting in an ionic bond.
Conversely, when the difference in electronegativity is small or negligible, the atoms share electrons more equally, forming a covalent bond.
Therefore, the primary factor determining whether a bond is ionic or covalent is the difference in electronegativity between the two atoms involved.
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