Question

A is an atom with electronegativity higher than that of B. Which of the following are the correct observations for the ionic compound AB?

• A. A forms cation
• B. B forms cation
• C. A forms anion
• D. B forms anion

Answer 1

Answer: (B), (C)

The correct options are
B B forms cation
C A forms anion

$\bullet$ Electronegativity is a measure of the tendency of an atom to attract a shared pair of electrons. Higher the electronegativity of an atom, higher is its tendency to hold the electrons.

$\bullet$ Since, the electronegativity of atom A is higher hence, it has more tendency to gain electrons. Thus, A will form an anion.

$\bullet$ While, atom B have lower electronegativity i.e. it is more electropositive. Thus, it has more tendency to lose electrons and will form a cation.