Question

Classify the following compounds as ionic or covalent: a. MgCl2 b. Na2S c. H2O d. H2S

Answer 1

Explanation:

A compound in which there occurs sharing of electrons from atom to another is known as a covalent compound.

For example, atomic number of hydrogen is 1 and atomic number of oxygen is 8.

As electronic distribution of oxygen atom is 2, 6. So, in order to complete its octet it will share its valence electrons with two hydrogen atoms.

Hence, it will form $H_{2}O$ compound which is covalent in nature.

Whereas, a compound in which there occurs transfer of electrons from one atom to another is known as an ionic compound.

For example, atomic number of magnesium is 12 and atomic number of chlorine is 17. So, in order to attain stability Mg donates its valence electrons to chlorine atoms which will form an ionic compound $MgCl_{2}$.

Thus, we can conclude that out of the given options compounds are classified as follows.

• Ionic compound - $MgCl_{2}$ and $Na_{2}S$

• Covalent compound - $H_{2}O$ and $H_{2}S$

Answer 2

MgCl2 is ionic because it is a positive metal bonding with a negative nonmetal. Na2S is ionic for the same reason. H2O and H2S are both covalent because they are two nonmetals bonded together.