Question

Based on their locations in the periodic table, which two elements are most likely to form covalent
bonds with each other?
(1 point)
magnesium (Mg) and sulfur (S)
nitrogen (N) and oxygen (O)
sodium (Na) and bromine (Br)
potassium (K) and iodine (I

Answer 1

To determine which pair of elements is most likely to form covalent bonds, we should consider their positions in the periodic table. Covalent bonds typically form between nonmetals or between nonmetals and metalloids, whereas ionic bonds are more likely to form between metals and nonmetals.

1. **Magnesium (Mg) and sulfur (S)**: Magnesium is a metal, and sulfur is a nonmetal. They are more likely to form ionic bonds.

2. **Nitrogen (N) and oxygen (O)**: Both nitrogen and oxygen are nonmetals and are located in the upper right portion of the periodic table. They are likely to form covalent bonds.

3. **Sodium (Na) and bromine (Br)**: Sodium is a metal and bromine is a nonmetal, leading to the formation of ionic bonds.

4. **Potassium (K) and iodine (I)**: Potassium is a metal, and iodine is a nonmetal, so they are also more likely to form ionic bonds.

Based on this analysis, **nitrogen (N) and oxygen (O)** are the pair most likely to form covalent bonds with each other.