Question

classify the following compound as covalent (molecular) or ionic: al₂o₃

Explanation:

Ionic compounds are formed when a metal (Aluminium, \(Al\) is a metal) reacts with a non - metal (Oxygen, \(O\) is a non - metal). In \(Al_2O_3\), aluminium donates electrons to oxygen to form \(Al^{3 + }\) and \(O^{2-}\) ions. These ions are held together by electrostatic forces of attraction, which is characteristic of ionic compounds. Covalent (molecular) compounds are formed between non - metals where electrons are shared. Since \(Al_2O_3\) has a metal and a non - metal and forms ions, it is not covalent.

Answer:

B. ionic