Multiple Choice
How many bonds can a boron atom make without hybridization, given its electron configuration [B: 2s2 2p1]?
11. Bonding & Molecular Structure
Chemical Bonds
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Which of these bonds is the weakest?
A
Covalent bond
B
Metallic bond
C
Hydrogen bond
D
Ionic bond
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand the nature of each type of bond: Covalent bonds involve the sharing of electron pairs between atoms, metallic bonds involve a 'sea of electrons' shared among a lattice of metal atoms, ionic bonds involve the electrostatic attraction between oppositely charged ions, and hydrogen bonds are a type of dipole-dipole interaction between a hydrogen atom and a more electronegative atom like oxygen or nitrogen.
Recognize that hydrogen bonds are generally weaker than covalent, metallic, and ionic bonds. This is because hydrogen bonds are intermolecular forces, whereas the others are intramolecular forces, which are typically stronger.
Consider the energy required to break each type of bond. Covalent, metallic, and ionic bonds require more energy to break due to their stronger interactions compared to hydrogen bonds.
Recall that hydrogen bonds are often found in biological molecules like DNA and proteins, where they play a crucial role in maintaining structure but are weak enough to allow for flexibility and interactions.
Conclude that among the given options, the hydrogen bond is the weakest due to its nature as an intermolecular force, compared to the stronger intramolecular forces of covalent, metallic, and ionic bonds.
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