Which of the following drawings is more likely to represent an ionic compound and which a covalent compound? (a)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the difference between ionic and covalent compounds. Ionic compounds are formed when a metal loses electrons, and a nonmetal gains those electrons. The metal becomes a positively charged cation and the nonmetal becomes a negatively charged anion. The electrostatic attraction between the positives and negatives brings the particles together and creates an ionic compound. Covalent compounds, on the other hand, are formed when two nonmetals combine, or when a metalloid and a nonmetal combine. They 'share' their electrons to form a covalent bond.
2. Step 2: Look at the drawings provided. An ionic compound is usually represented by a crystal lattice structure because ionic compounds form a crystal lattice where each ion is surrounded by ions of the opposite charge. This is due to the strong electrostatic forces of attraction between the positive and negative ions. So, if the drawing shows a regular, repeating pattern, it is likely to represent an ionic compound.
3. Step 3: On the other hand, a covalent compound is usually represented by a molecular structure because covalent compounds form individual molecules. These molecules are held together by shared pairs of electrons (covalent bonds). So, if the drawing shows distinct groups of atoms (molecules), it is likely to represent a covalent compound.
4. Step 4: Compare the drawings with the descriptions above. The drawing that matches the description of an ionic compound is more likely to represent an ionic compound, and the drawing that matches the description of a covalent compound is more likely to represent a covalent compound.
5. Step 5: Remember that these are general guidelines and there can be exceptions. The actual structure of a compound can be confirmed by other methods such as X-ray crystallography.

Key Concepts

Ionic Compounds

Ionic compounds are formed through the transfer of electrons from one atom to another, resulting in the formation of charged ions. Typically, this occurs between metals, which lose electrons and become positively charged cations, and nonmetals, which gain electrons to become negatively charged anions. The electrostatic attraction between these oppositely charged ions leads to the formation of a crystalline lattice structure, which is characteristic of ionic compounds.

Covalent Compounds

Covalent compounds are formed when two or more nonmetals share electrons to achieve a full outer electron shell, resulting in the formation of molecules. This sharing can be equal (nonpolar covalent) or unequal (polar covalent), depending on the electronegativity of the atoms involved. Covalent compounds typically have lower melting and boiling points compared to ionic compounds and can exist as gases, liquids, or solids at room temperature.

Electronegativity

Electronegativity is a measure of an atom's ability to attract and hold onto electrons in a chemical bond. It plays a crucial role in determining whether a bond will be ionic or covalent. In general, a large difference in electronegativity between two atoms indicates that an ionic bond is likely to form, while a small difference suggests that a covalent bond will occur. Understanding electronegativity helps predict the nature of the bond based on the elements involved.