Which characteristic do electronegativity differences indicate about reactions between atoms? explain
a
bond type
b
valence electron number
c
bond number
d
compound energy storage
The characteristic that electronegativity differences indicate about reactions between atoms is the bond type. Electronegativity is the measure of an atom's ability to attract and hold onto electrons in a chemical bond. When there is a significant difference in electronegativity between two atoms in a bond, it indicates a polar bond, where electrons are unequally shared between the atoms.
A high electronegativity difference between atoms results in an ionic bond, where one atom completely transfers its electrons to the other atom, creating charged ions that are held together by electrostatic forces. Examples include the bonding between a metal and a non-metal, such as sodium chloride (NaCl).
A moderate electronegativity difference between atoms results in a polar covalent bond, where electrons are shared between atoms but are not evenly distributed. One atom has a stronger pull on the electrons, creating partial charges on the atoms. Examples include the bonding between two non-metals, such as water (H2O).
A low electronegativity difference between atoms results in a nonpolar covalent bond, where electrons are shared equally between atoms. Both atoms have similar electronegativities and there are no charges present. Examples include the bonding between two identical non-metals, such as nitrogen gas (N2).
In summary, the electronegativity difference between atoms indicates the bond type, which can be ionic, polar covalent, or nonpolar covalent.