Multiple Choice
What type of intermolecular force is responsible for attracting one water molecule to another?
11. Bonding & Molecular Structure
Chemical Bonds
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What is the primary difference between a polar covalent bond and a nonpolar covalent bond?
A
A polar covalent bond involves unequal sharing of electrons, while a nonpolar covalent bond involves equal sharing of electrons.
B
A polar covalent bond results in the formation of ions, while a nonpolar covalent bond does not.
C
A polar covalent bond forms between metals, while a nonpolar covalent bond forms between nonmetals.
D
A polar covalent bond involves equal sharing of electrons, while a nonpolar covalent bond involves unequal sharing of electrons.
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand the concept of covalent bonds: Covalent bonds are formed when two atoms share electrons. This sharing allows each atom to attain the electron configuration of a noble gas, achieving stability.
Differentiate between polar and nonpolar covalent bonds: In a nonpolar covalent bond, the electrons are shared equally between the two atoms because they have similar electronegativities. In a polar covalent bond, the electrons are shared unequally due to a difference in electronegativity between the two atoms.
Recognize the role of electronegativity: Electronegativity is a measure of an atom's ability to attract and hold onto electrons. When two atoms have different electronegativities, the more electronegative atom will attract the shared electrons more strongly, leading to a polar covalent bond.
Identify the effects of unequal electron sharing: In a polar covalent bond, the unequal sharing of electrons results in a partial positive charge on the less electronegative atom and a partial negative charge on the more electronegative atom, creating a dipole moment.
Clarify misconceptions: A polar covalent bond does not result in the formation of ions, nor does it typically form between metals. It involves nonmetals with different electronegativities. Nonpolar covalent bonds also form between nonmetals, but with similar electronegativities, leading to equal sharing of electrons.
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