Problem 2PE
Identifying Ionic and Molecular Compounds
Which of these compounds would you expect to be ionic: N2O, Na2O, CaCI2, SF4?
Give a reason why each of the following statements is a safe prediction: (a) Every compound of Rb with a nonmetal is ionic in character, (b) Every compound of nitrogen with a halogen element is a molecular compound, (c) The compound MgKr2 does not exist, (d) Na and K are very similar in the compounds they form with nonmetals, (e) If contained in an ionic compound, calcium (Ca) will be in the form of the doubly charged ion, Ca2 + .
Problem 2PEIdentifying Ionic and Molecular CompoundsWhich of these compounds would you expect to be ionic: N O, Na O,2aCI 2SF 2 4Give a reason why each of the following statements is a safe prediction: (a) Every compound ofRb with a nonmetal is ionic in character, (b) Every compound of nitrogen with a halogen elementis a molecular compound, (c) The compound MgKr does not 2xist, (d) Na and K are very similarin the compounds they form with nonmetals, (e) If contained in an ionic compound, calcium (Ca)will be in the form of the doubly charged ion, Ca + . 2 Step-by-step solution Step 1 of 5(a)Generally, ionic compounds are formed by the combination of metal cations and non-metalsanions. Rubidium is a metal belonging to alkali metal group with one electron in its outer mostshell. It is easier for Rb to lose one electron rather gaining seven electrons to attain noble-gasconfiguration, forming Rb cation. Thus, when it combines with a non-metal it gives one electronrather than accepting electrons from it, forming only ionic compounds. So every compound ofRb with non-metal is ionic in character.