Question

which two elements would not be capable of forming an ionic bond?
a phosphorus and chlorine
b iodine and sodium
c calcium and oxygen
d barium and nitrogen

Explanation:

Step1: Recall the nature of ionic bonds

Ionic bonds form between a metal and a non - metal.

Step2: Analyze each option

• Option a: Phosphorus (\(P\)) is a non - metal (\(P\) is in group 15) and chlorine (\(Cl\)) is a non - metal (\(Cl\) is in group 17). Non - metals form covalent bonds.
• Option b: Sodium (\(Na\)) is a metal (\(Na\) is in group 1) and iodine (\(I\)) is a non - metal (\(I\) is in group 17). They can form an ionic bond (\(NaI\)).
• Option c: Calcium (\(Ca\)) is a metal (\(Ca\) is in group 2) and oxygen (\(O\)) is a non - metal (\(O\) is in group 16). They can form an ionic bond (\(CaO\)).
• Option d: Barium (\(Ba\)) is a metal (\(Ba\) is in group 2) and nitrogen (\(N\)) is a non - metal (\(N\) is in group 15). They can form an ionic bond (\(Ba_3N_2\)).

Answer:

a. phosphorus and chlorine