In the solid state, Beryllium chloride () forms a polymeric structure. What is the nature of the bon — s Block Elements Chemistry Question

💡 Solution & Explanation

In solid state, $BeCl_2$ exists as a polymeric chain where Chlorine atoms form bridges between Beryllium atoms. Because Be is electron-deficient, Cl donates a lone pair into the empty orbital of an adjacent Be atom, forming a coordinate covalent (dative) bond. This creates a $3\text{-centre-}4\text{-electron}$ bridge bond.