Question

Which of the following would most likely form an ionic bond with an ion of calcium? Select one: a. potassium b. magnesium c. bromine d. sulfur

Answer 1

Types of Bonds can be predicted by calculating the difference in electronegativity.

If, Electronegativity difference is,

Less than 0.4 then it is Non Polar Covalent

Between 0.4 and 1.7 then it is Polar Covalent

Greater than 1.7 then it is Ionic

For Ca and K,

E.N of Calcium = 1.00

E.N of Potassium = 0.82

________

E.N Difference 0.18 (Non Polar Covalent)

For Ca and Mg,

E.N of Magnesium = 1.31

E.N of Calcium = 1.00

________

E.N Difference 0.31 (Non Polar Covalent)

For Ca and Br,

E.N of Bromine = 2.96

E.N of Calcium = 1.00

________

E.N Difference 1.96 (Ionic)

For Ca and S,

E.N of Sulfur = 2.58

E.N of Calcium = 1.00

________

E.N Difference 1.58 (Polar Covalent)

Result:

The bond between Calcium and Bromine is Ionic in Nature.