Multiple Choice
Which of the following best describes the difference between an ionic bond and a covalent bond?
11. Bonding & Molecular Structure
Chemical Bonds
Multiple Choice
Which type of chemical bond is formed when hydrogen and oxygen atoms combine to form a molecule of water (H_2O)?
A
Covalent bond
B
Ionic bond
C
Metallic bond
D
Hydrogen bond
Verified step by step guidance1
Identify the elements involved: hydrogen (H) and oxygen (O). Both are nonmetals.
Recall that when two nonmetal atoms combine, they typically form covalent bonds by sharing electrons.
Understand that in a water molecule (H_2O), each hydrogen atom shares one electron with oxygen, allowing oxygen to complete its octet.
Recognize that ionic bonds usually form between metals and nonmetals, which is not the case here.
Conclude that the bond type in water is a covalent bond, where electrons are shared between hydrogen and oxygen atoms.
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