Question

question
which of the following formulas represents an ionic compound?
a) pf₃
b) h₂o
c) o₂
d) ca(oh)₂

Explanation:

Ionic compounds are formed by the electrostatic attraction between cations (positive ions) and anions (negative ions). Let's analyze each option:

• Option A: \(PF_3\)
• Phosphorus (\(P\)) and fluorine (\(F\)) are both non - metals. Non - metals tend to form covalent bonds by sharing electrons. So, \(PF_3\) is a covalent compound.
• Option B: \(H_2O\)
• Hydrogen (\(H\)) and oxygen (\(O\)) are non - metals. They form covalent bonds by sharing electrons. Thus, \(H_2O\) is a covalent compound.
• Option C: \(O_2\)
• This is a diatomic molecule of the same non - metal element (oxygen). It forms a covalent bond (a non - polar covalent bond in this case) by sharing electrons. So, \(O_2\) is a covalent compound.
• Option D: \(Ca(OH)_2\)
• Calcium (\(Ca\)) is a metal. It loses electrons to form \(Ca^{2 + }\) cations. The hydroxide group (\(OH^-\)) is an anion. The compound is held together by the electrostatic attraction between \(Ca^{2+}\) and \(OH^-\) ions. So, \(Ca(OH)_2\) is an ionic compound.

Answer:

D. \(Ca(OH)_2\)