Question

Which of the following condition(s) is/are correct for the formation of an electrovalent bond?

• A. The ionisation potential of an atom should be high so that a cation is formed easily.
• B. Both atoms which take part in bonding should have low electronegativity.
• C. The difference in electronegativities of two atoms is higher.
• D. Lower electron affinity values of an atom favour ionic bonding.

Answer 1

The correct option is C

The difference in electronegativities of two atoms is higher.

When an ionic compound is formed, the neutral atom is changed to a cation or an anion.The formation of cations and anions depends on the following factors:

1. Low ionisation potential: If the ionisation potential of a particular atom is low, it will lose electron(s) easily, i.e., a cation is formed easily.
2. High electron affinity: If the electron affinity value is high, anion will be formed easily,i.e., a higher electron affinity value favours ionic bonding.
3. Large electronegativities difference: If the difference in the electronegativities of two elements is higher, then the transfer of electrons will be easier. Therefore, more the difference in electronegativities, more will be the ionic nature of resulting compound.