Question

HCL is covalent in gaseous state but ionic in aqueous state. give reason.

Answer 1

HCl as such is a covalent molecule since it formed by sharing of electrons between the chlorine and hydrogen atom. But, it has appreciable ionic character due to the high electronegativity of the chlorine atom. ... This is why it is covalent in gaseous phase and ionic in aqueous phase

Answer 2

Answer:

In HCl, the electronegativity difference in Cl and H atoms (3.0-2.1) is 0.9. Therefore, it is predominantly covalent in the gaseous state. When dissolved in water which is of polar nature, there an attraction between the atoms of the acid and polar

molecules. Energy is released during attraction. This helps in the ionisation of the acid. Therefore,

molecule, C-Cl bonds are polar but molecule is non polar in aqueous solution.