Will carbon and hydrogen atoms most likely form an ionic bond or a covalent bond?
Answer (1)
Determine the electronegativity of carbon (2.55) and hydrogen (2.20).
Calculate the electronegativity difference: ∣2.55 − 2.20∣ = 0.35 .
Since the electronegativity difference is less than 1.7, the bond is covalent.
Carbon and hydrogen atoms will most likely form a covalent bond .
Explanation
Understanding the Problem We are asked to determine whether carbon and hydrogen atoms will most likely form an ionic bond or a covalent bond. To do this, we need to consider the electronegativity difference between the two atoms.
Identifying Electronegativity Values The electronegativity of carbon is approximately 2.55, and the electronegativity of hydrogen is approximately 2.20.
Calculating Electronegativity Difference To determine the type of bond formed, we calculate the difference in electronegativity between carbon and hydrogen: ∣2.55 − 2.20∣ = 0.35
Determining Bond Type If the electronegativity difference is less than 1.7, the bond is most likely covalent. If the electronegativity difference is greater than 1.7, the bond is most likely ionic. Since 0.35 is less than 1.7, carbon and hydrogen atoms will most likely form a covalent bond.
Conclusion Therefore, carbon and hydrogen atoms will most likely form a covalent bond.
Examples
Consider methane (CH4), a primary component of natural gas. The bonds between carbon and hydrogen in methane are covalent, allowing it to exist as a gas at room temperature. Covalent bonds are crucial in organic chemistry, forming the backbone of many biological molecules like proteins and carbohydrates. Understanding bond types helps predict molecular properties and reactivity.
