Use electronegativity to explain why the bond in HCl is polar covalent rather than nonpolar covalent.
Answer & Analysis
Analysis
Question Analysis
This question involves the core relationship between electronegativity difference and covalent bond polarity
Key Concept Explanation
Electronegativity is a measure of an atom’s ability to attract electrons in a bond.
In a nonpolar covalent bond, electrons are shared equally because the atoms have similar electronegativities.
In a polar covalent bond, electrons are shared unequally due to a moderate difference in electronegativity, creating partial charges.
Step-by-step Solution
1. Hydrogen and chlorine form a covalent bond because both are nonmetals.
2. Chlorine has a much higher electronegativity than hydrogen (
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