The electronic configuration of three elements X, Y and Z are as follows:X   2,4
Y    2,7
Z    2,1
(a) Which two elements will combine to form an ionic compound?
(b) Which two elements will react to form a covalent compound?
Give reasons for your choice.


(a) Y and Z will form an ionic compound because when one of the atoms donate electrons to achieve the inert gas configuration, and the other atom needs electrons to achieve the inert gas configuration, an ionic bond is formed. As Y has 7 and Z has 1 electron in their outermost shell, they would form an ionic compound.

(b) X and Y will react to form a covalent compound because when both the reacting atoms need electrons to achieve the inert gas electron arrangement, a covalent compound is formed. As X has 4 and Y has 7 electrons in their outermost shell, therefore they would form a covalent compound.

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Updated on: 10-Oct-2022

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