Exemplar Problems

Problem 2 : Discuss the concept of electronegativity and how it influences the type of chemical bond formed between two atoms. Provide examples of covalent and ionic bonds.

Solution :

Electronegativity is a measure of an atom’s ability to attract electrons in a chemical bond and influences the type of chemical bond formed. When two atoms have similar electronegativities (e.g., H-H or Cl-Cl), they form nonpolar covalent bonds, where electrons are shared equally. When two atoms have different electronegativities (e.g., Na-Cl), they form ionic bonds, where electrons are transferred from one atom to another, creating ions. Examples: H₂ (nonpolar covalent) and NaCl (ionic).