Which of the following correctly identifies the chemical bond between a carbon and oxygen atom?

• A. Polar Covalent
• B. Pure Covalent
• C. Nonpolar
• D. Ionic

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the types of chemical bonds: Ionic bonds occur between metals and nonmetals and involve the transfer of electrons. Covalent bonds occur between nonmetals and involve the sharing of electrons. Polar covalent bonds are a type of covalent bond where electrons are shared unequally, leading to a partial charge.
2. Identify the elements involved: Carbon (C) and Oxygen (O) are both nonmetals, which suggests that the bond between them is covalent rather than ionic.
3. Consider electronegativity: Electronegativity is a measure of an atom's ability to attract and hold onto electrons. Oxygen is more electronegative than carbon, meaning it will attract the shared electrons more strongly.
4. Determine the type of covalent bond: Since oxygen is more electronegative than carbon, the electrons in the bond will be closer to the oxygen atom, creating a dipole moment. This indicates a polar covalent bond.
5. Conclude the bond type: Based on the electronegativity difference between carbon and oxygen, the bond is identified as polar covalent, as the electrons are shared unequally.