Question Detail

CHM 101 CHM 101 Past Questions Objective Question
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Question

Which of the following best explains the increased strength of ionic bonding in magnesium oxide (MgO) compared to sodium chloride (NaCl)?
Options
A MgO has fewer ions than NaCl
B MgO has stronger covalent bonds
C Mg²⁺ and O²⁻ have greater charge, leading to stronger electrostatic attractions
Correct Answer
D NaCl contains polar covalent bonds
Correct Answer

Option C is the correct answer.

Detailed Explanation

Ionic bond strength is directly related to the electrostatic attraction between ions, which depends on ion charge. Mg²⁺ and O²⁻ have charges of +2 and -2, respectively, resulting in a much stronger attraction than the +1 and -1 charges in Na⁺ and Cl⁻.

Hint

Compare the charges on the ions. How does charge affect the strength of electrostatic force?

Question Info

Course: CHM 101
Topic: CHM 101 Past Questions
Type: Objective
Difficulty: Not specified
Question 232 of 1872
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