To determine which compound among the given options is ionic, we need to review the nature of ionic and covalent bonds:
1. Ionic Bonds: These bonds are typically formed between metals and nonmetals. In an ionic bond, one atom (usually a metal) donates one or more electrons to another atom (usually a nonmetal), creating positive and negative ions that attract each other.
2. Covalent Bonds: These bonds are typically formed between nonmetals. In a covalent bond, atoms share electrons to achieve a full outer electron shell.
Let's analyze each compound:
A) SF6 (Sulfur Hexafluoride): Both sulfur (S) and fluorine (F) are nonmetals. They form covalent bonds by sharing electrons.
B) H₂O (Water): Both hydrogen (H) and oxygen (O) are nonmetals. They form covalent bonds by sharing electrons.
C) H₂O₂ (Hydrogen Peroxide): Both hydrogen (H) and oxygen (O) are nonmetals. They form covalent bonds by sharing electrons.
D) NH₃ (Ammonia): Both nitrogen (N) and hydrogen (H) are nonmetals. They form covalent bonds by sharing electrons.
E) CaO (Calcium Oxide): Calcium (Ca) is a metal and oxygen (O) is a nonmetal. Calcium donates two electrons to oxygen, resulting in the formation of Ca²⁺ and O²⁻ ions. The attraction between these oppositely charged ions forms an ionic bond.
Therefore, the compound that is expected to be ionic is:
E) CaO (Calcium Oxide).
