Question

Which compounds are most likely to have covalent bonds?

Select all that apply.
Hint: Review your periodic table.

NaF
MgO
H2O
CO

Answer 1

H₂O and CO are the compounds most likely to have covalent bonds because they are composed of non-metallic elements. NaF and MgO are ionic compounds as they contain a metal and a non-metal.

Step-by-step explanation:

Compounds that are most likely to have covalent bonds are usually formed between non-metallic elements. In the choices given, compounds H₂O (water) and CO (carbon monoxide) are most likely to have covalent bonds because they consist of non-metallic elements bonded together.

Let's evaluate the options further:

• Sodium fluoride (NaF) - Ionic compound due to the metal (Na) and non-metal (F) combination.
• Magnesium oxide (MgO) - Ionic compound, as it consists of a metal (Mg) reacting with a non-metal (O).
• Water (H₂O) - Covalent compound, made from non-metals hydrogen and oxygen.
• Carbon monoxide (CO) - Covalent compound, with carbon and oxygen being non-metals.

Answer 2

The answer to your question is; H2O and CO.

Step-by-step explanation:

Ionic bonding is when a metal donates its valence electrons to a nonmetal.

Covalent bonding is when two nonmetals share electrons to reach noble gases' configuration.

NaF here we have a metal and a nonmetal, then the bonding is ionic.

MgO here, there is also a metal and a nonmetal, the bonding is ionic.

H2O here, there are two nonmetals, so this is a covalent bonding.

CO here, there are two nonmetals, the bonding is covalent.