The compound that has the highest ionic character associated with the X — Cl bond is : — Chemical Bonding Chemistry Question
Question
The compound that has the highest ionic character associated with the X — Cl bond is :
💡 Solution & Explanation
Step 1: Recall that the ionic character of a covalent bond increases as the electronegativity difference (ΔEN) between the two bonded atoms increases. Step 2: Compare the electronegativities of the central atoms: Boron (2.0), Carbon (2.5), Silicon (1.8), and Phosphorus (2.1), while Chlorine has an electronegativity of 3.0. Step 3: The electronegativity difference is largest for the Si—Cl bond (3.0 - 1.8 = 1.2), giving it the highest ionic character among the choices. Therefore, SiCl4 is the correct answer, corresponding to option (d).