In 3–5 sentences, predict how phosphorus and chlorine would bond. Explain why they would bond that way. (4 points)

Answer 1

Phosphorus (P) and chlorine (Cl) would bond through the formation of covalent bonds, resulting in compounds such as phosphorus trichloride (PCl₃). Phosphorus, which has five valence electrons, tends to share three of these with three chlorine atoms, each of which has seven valence electrons and requires one additional electron to achieve a stable octet. This sharing of electrons allows both elements to attain a full outer shell, satisfying the octet rule. Additionally, the electronegativity difference between phosphorus and chlorine is not significant enough for ionic bonding, making covalent bonding the more favorable option.