Question Detail

CHM 101 Chemical Bonding and Molecular Structure Objective Question
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Question

Why is the ionic bonding stronger in magnesium oxide (MgO) than in sodium chloride (NaCl)?
Options
A MgO has a higher molecular mass
B Mg²⁺ and O²⁻ have greater charges than Na⁺ and Cl⁻
Correct Answer
C MgO is more soluble in water
D MgO has a different crystal structure
Correct Answer

Option B is the correct answer.

Detailed Explanation

The ionic bonding in MgO is stronger because Mg²⁺ attracts O²⁻ with a 2+ charge interacting with a 2- charge. In NaCl, Na⁺ attracts Cl⁻ with only 1+ and 1- charges. The greater the charges on the ions, the stronger the electrostatic attraction between them.

Hint

Compare the charges of the ions in each compound.

Question Info

Course: CHM 101
Topic: Chemical Bonding and Molecular Structure
Type: Objective
Difficulty: Not specified
Question 1558 of 1872
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