The most favorable conditions for the formation of ionic bonds are

Correct answer: D. Small cation and large anion with low charge

  • A. Large cation and small anion
  • B. Large cation and large anion
  • C. Small cation and small anion
  • D. Small cation and large anion with low charge

Explanation

Ionic bond formation is most favorable when the electrostatic attraction between ions is strong and covalent character is minimal. A small cation has a high charge density, allowing it to attract anions strongly. A large anion with low charge has lower charge density and is less polarizing, reducing covalent character. Therefore, a combination of a small cation and a large, low-charge anion favors the formation of a strong and predominantly ionic bond.

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About Chemical Bonding

Chemical bonding explains molecular shape through VSEPR theory and distinguishes sigma bonds from pi bonds. Questions involve hybridization, bond angles, dipole moment and bond energy, including how electron-pair repulsion determines geometry and how bond polarity differs from the overall polarity of a molecule.

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