Asked in ETEA MDCAT 2011 2011Moderate

The behavior of PbCl and PbCl2 respectively are:

Correct answer: A. ionic and covalent

  • A. ionic and covalent
  • B. covalent and ionic
  • C. covalent and coordinate covalent
  • D. ionic and coordinate covalent

Explanation

The correct answer is 'ionic and covalent'. PbCl₂ is ionic because lead is in a +2 oxidation state, leading to electron transfer and ionic bond formation with chlorine. In contrast, PbCl4 is covalent because lead is in a +4 oxidation state, which increases its polarizing power, favoring electron sharing and covalent bond formation. Options B, C, and D are incorrect as they either reverse the bond types or incorrectly identify the bond types in PbCl₂ and PbCl4.

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About Ionic and Molecular Crystals

Ionic crystals contain oppositely charged ions held by electrostatic forces, whereas molecular crystals contain discrete molecules joined by weaker intermolecular forces. Their structures explain differences in melting point, hardness, volatility, solubility and electrical conductivity, especially between solid and molten states.

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