Question

In which of the following species are the bonds non-directional?

• A. $NC{l}_3$
• B. $RbCl$
• C. $BeC{l}_2$
• D. $BC{l}_3$

Answer 1

The correct option is B $RbCl$

Ionic bonds are the electrostatic force of attraction between the cations (positively charged ions) and the anions (negatively charged ions). The force of attraction is uniform in all directions thus, making the bonds non-directional.

Covalent bonds are formed by the overlapping of orbitals, which take place in definite directions. Thus, covalent bonds are directional in nature.

$NC{l}_3:$ Nitrogen and Chlorine are both non-metals, therefore the compound formed is a covalent compound.

$RbCl:$ Rubidium and Chlorine is a metal and a non-metal respectively, therefore $RbCl$ is an ionic compound.

$BeC{l}_2:$ Beryllium and Chlorine is a metal and a non-metal respectively, but still it is not an ionic compound as the electronegativity difference is less. Therefore $BeC{l}_2$ is a covalent compound.

$BC{l}_3:$ Boron and Chlorine are both non-metals and therefore form a covalent compound.