Which statement best describes the types of bonds shown in the diagram

Question

A. an ionic bond; a hydrogen ion is bonding with a chlorine atom
B. a covalent bond; the hydrogen atom’s single electron is being shared with the chlorine atom
C. a covalent bond; the hydrogen atom’s two electrons are being shared with the chlorine atom
D. an ionic bond; the hydrogen chloride molecule has an electrical charge

Answer 1

To accurately choose the best statement that describes the types of bonds shown in the diagram, it's important to understand the nature of the bond between hydrogen and chlorine in a hydrogen chloride (HCl) molecule.

• An ionic bond typically involves the transfer of electrons from one atom to another, resulting in charged ions.
• A covalent bond involves the sharing of electrons between atoms.

In the case of hydrogen chloride (HCl):

• The hydrogen atom has one electron and shares it with chlorine, which has seven electrons in its outer shell. By sharing an electron, both atoms achieve greater stability.

Based on this explanation, the correct interpretation is:

B. a covalent bond; the hydrogen atom’s single electron is being shared with the chlorine atom.

This accurately describes the bonding in hydrogen chloride.