Predict whether each of the following compounds is molecular or ionic. a. PF5

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Identify the elements involved in the compound: PF₅ consists of phosphorus (P) and fluorine (F).

Determine the type of elements: Phosphorus is a non-metal, and fluorine is also a non-metal.

Recall the general rule: Compounds formed between non-metals are typically molecular (covalent), while compounds formed between metals and non-metals are typically ionic.

Since both phosphorus and fluorine are non-metals, PF₅ is likely to be a molecular compound.

Conclude that PF₅ is a molecular compound because it is formed by the sharing of electrons between non-metal atoms.

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Ionic vs. Molecular Compounds

Ionic compounds are formed from the electrostatic attraction between positively and negatively charged ions, typically involving a metal and a nonmetal. In contrast, molecular compounds consist of molecules formed by covalent bonds, where atoms share electrons, usually involving nonmetals. Understanding the distinction helps in predicting the properties and structures of compounds.

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02:11

Ionic Compounds Naming

Electronegativity

Electronegativity is a measure of an atom's ability to attract and hold onto electrons in a bond. In general, a large difference in electronegativity between two atoms indicates an ionic bond, while a small difference suggests a covalent bond. For example, in PF5, the electronegativity of phosphorus and fluorine can help determine the nature of the compound.

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Electronegativity Trends

Lewis Structures

Lewis structures are diagrams that represent the bonding between atoms in a molecule and the lone pairs of electrons that may exist. They are useful for visualizing how atoms are connected and can help predict whether a compound is molecular or ionic. Drawing the Lewis structure for PF5 reveals its molecular nature, as it consists of covalent bonds between phosphorus and fluorine atoms.

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