Chemistry / Unit 12 Chem 2311 short lesson, about 20 seconds
Nonmetal Bonding Type from Electronegativity Difference
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The idea
A large electronegativity difference favors ionic bonding; a small difference between two nonmetals favors covalent bonding.
In practice
Sodium and chlorine, far apart in electronegativity, form ionic NaCl; two chlorine atoms form covalent Cl2.
Where people slip
Electronegativity difference sets a trend, not a hard cutoff — many bonds fall between purely ionic and purely covalent.
Your place on the trail
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