The electronic configurations of three elements X, Y, and Z are as follows:
X=2,4
Y=2,7
Z=2,1
(a) Which two elements will combine to form an ionic compound?
(b) Which two elements will react to form a covalent compound?
Give reasons for your choice.
Answer :
(a) Elements Y and Z combine to form an ionic compound by the transfer of one electron from Z to Y.
(b) Elements X and Y will react to form a covalent compound because atom X can react with 4 atoms of Y to share their one electron.