Calculate the difference (subtract) in electronegativities for each set of elements below. Use the difference to determine the type of bond that will form (Use the chart above). Magnesium (Mg) and Chlorine (Cl). in MgCl2
To calculate the difference in electronegativities, we can use the Pauling electronegativity values (which can be found in the chart above):
Electronegativity of Magnesium (Mg) = 1.31
Electronegativity of Chlorine (Cl) = 3.16
Difference in electronegativities = Electronegativity of Chlorine - Electronegativity of Magnesium
= 3.16 - 1.31
= 1.85
According to the electronegativity difference, the type of bond that will form is an ionic bond.