Use the periodic table to answer the question.

Question

An illustration shows the periodic table of elements. The elements in the periodic table are arranged in groups (columns numbered 1 through 18) and periods (rows numbered 1 through 7) such that the atomic number increases along a period from left to right. The elements are divided into the following categories: · Alkali metals · Alkaline earth metals · Transition metals · Post-transition metals · Lanthanides · Actinides · Metalloids · Nonmetals · Noble gases · Unknown The elements are also classified on the basis of their physical states as follows: · Solid · Liquid · Gas · Unknown The element sulfur is enlarged with the following properties. · Chemical symbol: S · Name: Sulfur · Atomic Number: 16 · Atomic mass: 32.06 · Common oxidation states: 6, 4, 2, negative 2 · Electronegativity: 2.58 · Ionization energies: 999.589 · Electron configuration: [Ne] 3s2 3p4



Based on their locations in the periodic table, which two elements are most likely to form covalent bonds with each other?

(1 point)
Responses

magnesium (Mg) and sulfur (S)
magnesium (Mg) and sulfur (S)

potassium (K) and iodine (I)
potassium (K) and iodine (I)

nitrogen (N) and oxygen (O)
nitrogen (N) and oxygen (O)

sodium (Na) and bromine (Br)

Answer 1

Covalent bonds are typically formed between nonmetals that have similar electronegativities. Based on the information given and the arrangement in the periodic table:

• Magnesium (Mg) is an alkaline earth metal, which typically forms ionic bonds.
• Potassium (K) is an alkali metal, which also typically forms ionic bonds.
• Iodine (I) is a nonmetal and can form covalent bonds.
• Nitrogen (N) and Oxygen (O) are both nonmetals and are known to readily form covalent bonds with each other.
• Sodium (Na) is another alkali metal, which typically forms ionic bonds, while Bromine (Br) is a nonmetal capable of forming covalent bonds.

Among the choices provided, nitrogen (N) and oxygen (O) are most likely to form covalent bonds with each other because they are both nonmetals.

Therefore, the best answer is:

nitrogen (N) and oxygen (O)