Question

Which of the alkaline earth elements forms covalent bonds?

• A. Ca
• B. Mg
• C. Sr
• D. Be

Answer 1

The correct option is D Be

An element will form a covalent compound if its electron losing tendency is low, and it does not form an ionic compound by losing electron(s).

Beryllium is the first element in the group $2$ of alkaline earth metals. Being the first element of the group, it has a very small atomic size. Due to this, the effective nuclear charge on the valence electrons is high as the nuclear pull is strong, and it becomes difficult for it to lose an electron.

So, beryllium $\left(Be\right)$ forms a covalent compound by sharing its valence electrons.

Therefore, Option (D) is correct.