Question

Is the element silicon likely to form ionic or covalent bonds?

Answer 1

Hey

Atomic number of silicon:14

Electronic configuration:2,8,4

Electronic configuration:1s2,2s2,2p6,3s2,3p2

From this we can deduce that silicon is tetravalent and has a combining capacity of 4.

Case 1:It could give away 4 electrons but it would require a lot of energy (Ionization energy)

Case2:It could take 4 electrons but it would be difficult for the nucleus with 14 protons to hold on to 18 electrons.

Case3:Silicon is similar to carbon on its valency. It would rather share it's electrons than donate or take.

Hence,silicon is more likely to form covalent bonds.

I hope it helps you!!!!:-)