Predict whether each of the following compounds is molecular or ionic: (a) B2H6

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Identify the elements in the compound \( \text{B}_2\text{H}_6 \).

Determine the types of elements: Boron (B) is a metalloid and Hydrogen (H) is a nonmetal.

Recall that molecular compounds are typically formed between nonmetals, while ionic compounds are formed between metals and nonmetals.

Consider the bonding: \( \text{B}_2\text{H}_6 \) involves covalent bonding between boron and hydrogen, which are both nonmetals/metalloids.

Conclude that \( \text{B}_2\text{H}_6 \) is a molecular compound because it consists of nonmetals/metalloids bonded covalently.

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Molecular Compounds

Molecular compounds are formed when two or more nonmetals bond together by sharing electrons, resulting in covalent bonds. These compounds typically have low melting and boiling points and can exist in various states (solid, liquid, gas) at room temperature. An example is water (H2O), where hydrogen and oxygen share electrons.

Ionic Compounds

Ionic compounds are formed when metals and nonmetals react, resulting in the transfer of electrons from the metal to the nonmetal, creating charged ions. These compounds are characterized by high melting and boiling points and typically form crystalline structures. Sodium chloride (NaCl) is a classic example, where sodium donates an electron to chlorine.

Boron Hydrides

Boron hydrides, such as B2H6 (diborane), are a class of compounds that consist of boron and hydrogen. They are typically molecular in nature due to the covalent bonding between boron and hydrogen atoms. Understanding the structure and bonding in boron hydrides is essential for predicting their properties and classification as molecular compounds.

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