Calculate the electronegativity difference and classify each of the following bonds as nonpolar covalent, polar covalent, or ionic: (6.7)c. Na and Cl

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the electronegativity values for sodium (Na) and chlorine (Cl) from the periodic table. Sodium typically has an electronegativity of about 0.93, and chlorine has an electronegativity of about 3.16.
2. Calculate the electronegativity difference by subtracting the electronegativity of sodium from that of chlorine: \( \Delta EN = EN_{Cl} - EN_{Na} \).
3. Determine the type of bond based on the electronegativity difference: if \( \Delta EN \) is less than 0.5, the bond is nonpolar covalent; if \( \Delta EN \) is between 0.5 and 1.7, the bond is polar covalent; if \( \Delta EN \) is greater than 1.7, the bond is ionic.
4. Compare the calculated electronegativity difference to these thresholds to classify the bond between Na and Cl.
5. Conclude the classification of the bond based on the comparison.

Key Concepts

Electronegativity

Electronegativity is a measure of an atom's ability to attract and hold onto electrons in a chemical bond. It is a key factor in determining the nature of the bond formed between two atoms. The higher the electronegativity value, the stronger the atom's pull on electrons. This concept is essential for classifying bonds as nonpolar covalent, polar covalent, or ionic based on the difference in electronegativity between the bonded atoms.

Bond Classification

Bonds can be classified into three main types based on the difference in electronegativity between the two atoms involved. Nonpolar covalent bonds occur when the electronegativity difference is negligible (typically less than 0.4), polar covalent bonds form with a moderate difference (0.4 to 1.7), and ionic bonds arise when the difference is significant (greater than 1.7). Understanding these classifications helps predict the properties and behaviors of compounds.

Sodium and Chlorine Bonding

In the case of sodium (Na) and chlorine (Cl), sodium has a low electronegativity (0.93) while chlorine has a high electronegativity (3.16). The electronegativity difference between these two elements is 2.23, which classifies the bond as ionic. This occurs because sodium donates an electron to chlorine, resulting in the formation of Na+ and Cl- ions, which are held together by strong electrostatic forces.