Question

select the correct answer. which pair of elements can form ionic bonds? a. copper (cu) and nitrogen (n) b. gallium (ga) and phosphorus (p) c. hydrogen (h) and sulfur (s) d. phosphorus (p) and fluorine (f) e. potassium (k) and bromine (br)

Explanation:

Step1: Recall ionic - bond condition

Ionic bonds form between a metal and a non - metal with a large electronegativity difference (usually > 1.7).

Step2: Analyze option A

Copper (Cu) is a metal and nitrogen (N) is a non - metal, but their electronegativity difference is not large enough for a typical ionic bond.

Step3: Analyze option B

Gallium (Ga) is a metal and phosphorus (P) is a non - metal, but the electronegativity difference is not sufficient for a strong ionic bond.

Step4: Analyze option C

Hydrogen (H) and sulfur (S) are non - metals and form covalent bonds.

Step5: Analyze option D

Phosphorus (P) and fluorine (F) are non - metals and form covalent bonds.

Step6: Analyze option E

Potassium (K) is a metal with low electronegativity (0.82) and bromine (Br) is a non - metal with relatively high electronegativity. The electronegativity difference is large enough to form an ionic bond.

Answer:

E. potassium (K) and bromine (Br)