Question

multiple choice question
which pair of elements are likely to form ionic compounds?
two nonmetal elements
two metal elements
two elements located on opposite sides of the periodic table
two elements close together on the periodic table
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Explanation:

Ionic compounds are formed when there is a transfer of electrons from one atom to another. This typically occurs between a metal (which donates electrons) and a non - metal (which accepts electrons). Elements on opposite sides of the periodic table often have one being a metal (left side, e.g., alkali metals, alkaline earth metals) and the other being a non - metal (right side, e.g., halogens, oxygen - group elements).

• Two nonmetal elements usually form covalent compounds by sharing electrons.
• Two metal elements do not form ionic compounds as they both tend to lose electrons and there is no electron - accepting species in this case.
• Two elements close together on the periodic table are likely to have similar electronegativity values and may form covalent or metallic bonds rather than ionic bonds.

Answer:

two elements located on opposite sides of the periodic table