Question

Why does $HCl$ ionize in solution if they are covalently bonded?

• A. Many bonds can be covalent in one situation and ionic in another
• B. It does not ionize
• C. They are not covalently bonded
• D. None of the above

Answer 1

Answer: (A)

Many bonds can be covalent in one situation and ionic in another

Many bonds can be covalent in one situation and ionic in another. Hydrogen chloride, $HCl$, is a gas in which the hydrogen and chlorine are covalently bound, but if $HCl$ is bubbled into the water, it ionizes completely to give the $H^{+}$ and $C{l}^{-}$ of a hydrochloric acid solution.