Predict whether each of the following compounds is molecular or ionic. h. N2O4

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Identify the elements present in the compound N2O4. The compound consists of nitrogen (N) and oxygen (O).
2. Step 2: Determine the type of elements involved. Nitrogen and oxygen are both nonmetals.
3. Step 3: Recall that molecular compounds are typically formed between nonmetals, while ionic compounds are formed between metals and nonmetals.
4. Step 4: Since N2O4 is composed of only nonmetals, it is likely to be a molecular compound.
5. Step 5: Conclude that N2O4 is a molecular compound because it consists of nonmetal elements bonded together.

Key Concepts

Molecular Compounds

Molecular compounds are formed when two or more nonmetals bond together by sharing electrons, resulting in covalent bonds. These compounds typically have low melting and boiling points and exist as gases or liquids at room temperature. An example is N2O4, which consists of nitrogen and oxygen atoms bonded covalently.

Ionic Compounds

Ionic compounds are formed when metals transfer electrons to nonmetals, resulting in the formation of charged ions that attract each other due to electrostatic forces. These compounds usually have high melting and boiling points and are often soluble in water. A common example is sodium chloride (NaCl), formed from sodium and chlorine.

Electronegativity

Electronegativity is a measure of an atom's ability to attract and hold onto electrons in a chemical bond. In general, a large difference in electronegativity between two atoms indicates an ionic bond, while a small difference suggests a covalent bond. Understanding electronegativity helps predict the nature of the bond in compounds like N2O4, which is covalent due to the similar electronegativities of nitrogen and oxygen.