Use the periodic table to answer the question.

Question

An illustration shows the periodic table of elements.

Which of the following elements are most likely to form an ionic bond?

(1 point)
Responses

S and Cl
S and Cl

C and O
C and O

K and Cl
K and Cl

K and Ca

Answer 1

Ionic bonds typically form between metals and nonmetals, where electrons are transferred from the metal to the nonmetal.

Among the responses provided:

• S and Cl: Both are nonmetals and are likely to form covalent bonds rather than ionic bonds.
• C and O: Both are nonmetals and are also likely to form covalent bonds.
• K and Cl: Potassium (K) is a metal and chlorine (Cl) is a nonmetal; they are likely to form an ionic bond.
• K and Ca: Both are metals, so they are unlikely to form an ionic bond.

Therefore, the pair most likely to form an ionic bond is K and Cl.