The atomic numbers of four elements P, Q, R and S are 6, 10, 12 and 17 respectively. Which two elements can combine to form a covalent compound?
(a) P and R
(b) Q and S
(c) P and S
(d) R and S
Answers
Elements P and S will combine to form a covalent compound. Hence, option (c) is correct.
• A covalent compound is formed by the sharing of valence electrons between two elements.
• Let us first have look at the electronic configuration of each of the given elements :
(i) P has an atomic number of 6. Hence, its electronic configuration will be 2, 4.
• 4 valence electrons means P will neither gain nor lose electrons.
• So, the best way for it is to share its 4 valence electrons with another atom.
(ii) Q - Atomic number : 10
Electronic configuration : 2, 8
• Since the octet of Q is already complete, it is already stable and will not take part in any bond formation.
(iii) R - Atomic number : 12
Electronic configuration : 2, 8, 2
• R has 2 electrons in the valence shell which it can lose readily to attain octet, thereby, forming a cation.
• Therefore, R will take part in electrovalent bonding and not covalent bonding.
(iv) S - Atomic number : 17
Electronic configuration : 2, 8, 7
• Element S needs to gain only one electron to complete its octet, thereby forming an anion.
• Since covalent bonds involve sharing of electrons and forming anions, element S will take part in covalent bonding.
• Therefore, element P will share each of its 4 valence electrons with four atoms of S, forming the covalent compound PS₄.
Hello Friend..!!
The answer of your question is..!!
Option.B
Thank you