In general, why do nonmetals form covalent bonds with one another?
Question 20 options:
a) They have similar atomic radii
b) They have similar electronegativities
c) Sharing of valence electrons is the most effective way to achieve stability
d) They have similar atomic masses
e) Answers b & c are correct
is the correct answer is e?
Yes, the correct answer is e) Answers b & c are correct. Nonmetals tend to form covalent bonds with one another because they have similar electronegativities, which means they have a similar ability to attract electrons. This allows for sharing of valence electrons, which is the most effective way for both nonmetals to achieve stability in their electron configurations.
Yes, the correct answer is e) Answers b & c are correct.
Yes, the correct answer is e) Answers b & c are correct.
Nonmetals tend to form covalent bonds with one another because they have similar electronegativities and sharing of valence electrons is the most effective way to achieve stability.
Explanation:
Nonmetals typically have high electronegativities, which means they have strong attractions for electrons. When two nonmetals come together to form a compound, neither atom is willing to completely give up its valence electrons to the other. Instead, they share electrons in order to achieve a more stable electron configuration.
By sharing electrons, both atoms can fill their outermost energy levels and achieve a more stable electronic configuration, similar to that of noble gases. This sharing of electrons forms covalent bonds between the nonmetal atoms.
Additionally, nonmetals usually have similar electronegativities, meaning they have similar tendencies to attract electrons. This makes it more likely for them to share electrons equally or in a balanced manner, leading to the formation of covalent bonds.
Therefore, both the similarity in electronegativity and the preference for sharing electrons to achieve stability are the main reasons why nonmetals tend to form covalent bonds with one another.